Challenges for newly-arrived immigrants  

One of the challenges that a newly-arrived immigrant faces is the adjustment to the new life here in the US. True, we are familiar with some of the facets of American way of living through stories from family and friends and what we read and see in the media, but it’s entirely different once you are here and experience firsthand how things are done. It helps when you have family and friends who would guide you. But if you are here in your own, good luck, as it may take a while for you to fully adjust. This week I compiled some challenges from my clients and even from my own experience which hopefully could help you prepare your transition to living in the USA.

1.) Ability to communicate and understand their language - While majority of us are competent in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English, there are still instances in which Americans don’t speak English the way Filipinos are taught at school. There are variations of the language depending on the area of the US. There are slang terms, double negatives, local idioms, varying accents, and unique phrases that only a long-time resident can understand. So when you meet people speaking a kind of English you think is grammatically wrong, make sure you clarify first with that person what he/she meant. Don’t be ashamed to ask questions or to request someone to repeat what they said. Also, on your end, speak clearly and coherently. Acknowledge that you have an accent that may not be easily understood. So you have to be very clear when you speak up.

2.) Society/Community – America, being the melting pot of all races from around the world, has a very interesting society. People are proud of their heritage and still adhere to their identified tradition and culture. Take note that Americans value so much their freedoms and if they feel their rights are violated or obscured, they will easily take you to court. As Americans value their privacy, it is not uncommon that sometimes people don’t know their neighbors’ names. Depending on your area, there are a lot of Filipino communities all around the US. Some are religion-based, while others are region-based depending on what area from the Philippines you are from. These communities can help you connect with the right resources should you need help. If you feel homesick, members of these communities could offer you some relief as they have activities, parties, and gatherings that you may attend. That’s a good way to meet new people too.

3.) Politics - There are two main political parties in the US --the Democrat and Republican parties. If you happen to favor one over the other, make sure that you disagree peacefully. You don’t need to be a member of either party. In a highly-volatile political arena, elections are for US citizens only. Permanent residents are not eligible to vote.

4.) Legalities - in America, as with any other civilized society, there are rules, Laws, and regulations that you have to follow. There are also different applicability of the laws either at the state or federal level. If you violate a law, expect that the full and long arm of the government will catch and prosecute you. Even traffic violations have court hearing and are accorded with the same respect as with any other case. Also, be aware of contracts that you may sign, be it as simple as a house rental agreement, or as complex as an employment contract. Contracts have the same effect as a law between parties. Thus it is enforceable, and affords relief in case the contract gets breached.

5.) Financial - Having sound finances here in the US is a necessity. By that, I mean enough financial cushion for you to withstand any threats to your financial well-being. You may lose your job, or get sick for an extended period of time, or suffer a huge financial loss. It is important that you are able to have enough finances to support you. As I wrote before, credit score is very important. So take good care of it as if it’s part of your body.

These are just some of the challenges that we identified as commonly experienced by newly-arrived immigrants. I’m sure there are more. One way to overcome these challenges is to ask for help. Do not be afraid to ask. Remember, there is only one dumb question. And that’s the one you did not ask.