My Story

Imagine this: Traveling halfway across the world to attend a school or fill a corporate position in a country where no one speaks your native language. You are suddenly immersed in a completely new culture, one in which all you know is based on what you have seen in movies. Not only do you feel like a stranger in a strange land, but you are forced to figure things out with minimal support.

This, for many people coming to the United States, does not require much imagination because it is something that is commonly experienced. When I try to imagine myself in such a position, I am instantly filled with concern. Honestly, I'm not sure how I would handle such an endeavor, nor do I think I would want to.

Yet, every year it seems hundreds and thousands of immigrants put themselves in such a position by moving to the United States. I have the utmost respect and admiration for these people, whether they are moving here to attend a four-year university or to start their own business. It takes a great deal of strength, courage, and determination to want to live in an unfamiliar country.

It seems to me that people come to this country in search of something. It may be better opportunities, a great education, or just simply a more fulfilling life, yet regardless of what they are looking for, for most immigrants, the transition to the United States seems to be worth the inevitable challenges they will experience once they are here.

Aside from the obvious language barrier one experiences, there are a number of cultural nuances that most likely will be challenging to get used to. For example, when people from China or India first arrive in the United States, they may be surprised by how unhealthy and insignificant the food is here. I recently read a paper written by a Chinese student about the cultural significance of food in China. This particular student wrote about how difficult it was to become accustomed to American cuisine. Even though food is just one part of life, this student from China had to change her entire diet in order to be here. I respect that.

Considering the vast amount of time and effort that each immigrant inevitably has to put in to become familiar with American culture, I believe that all of us who are fortunate enough to not have to experience such challenges (that is, those who were born in America) should welcome, accept, and help those who have decided to come here for whatever reason.

When I started developing the basic structure of what would become Level-Up Proficiency back in January I had one thing in mind: concern. Concern for the hundreds and thousands of immigrants who come to the United States looking for a better life. Concern for the students who travel halfway across the world just to get a chance to study in an internationally recognized university. Concern for those same people who leave their families and loved ones behind in order to make a name for themselves.

I was concerned because based on my experiences as a teacher, tutor, student, and an American citizen. Through working with countless nonnative speakers of English and befriending several foreign exchange students, some of whom I still keep in touch with, I realized that there are a lot of common issues that all of them encounter. What's even worse is that there does not seem to be many people willing to help them rectify these common issues.

One of the most significant issues that immigrants experience is trying to learn the English language. Of course, this varies depending on where the person is from. For instance, a nonnative speaker from France may know a bit more English than, say, someone from Japan. However, whether you are someone who is already moderately proficient or someone who just knows the basics, my goal, and therefore the core goal of Level-Up Proficiency is to ensure that each and every nonnative speaker, regardless of your current proficiency level, has the language skills needed to navigate their way through American society.

In addition, by helping nonnative speakers improve their English proficiency, I hope to help them gain confidence and understanding they'll need to be successful in America. Level-Up Proficiency is not just about becoming more proficient in the language, but it is about helping each person reach their goals through an in-depth understanding of American culture. It is about welcoming and congratulating each individual for taking the first steps towards a better future. It is about providing a sense of belonging for everyone.

Believe me, I know how tough it can be simply to make a name for yourself even if you already have mastery over the English language. I know how tough it can be to achieve success even if you already understand American society. As noted above, I couldn't even imagine trying to achieve success without understanding the language and cultural nuances. 

You should be proud.





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