Double Consciousness

As we learned about double consciousness, I began to think about myself and my family. My mother has had the most significant influence on me; my mother was a single Cambodian immigrant who came to America when she was twenty-seven. She left everything behind to come to the states to forge a better future for herself as well as her three children, including myself. My mother spent all her time balancing between family and work. Although she found herself having to work two jobs that both paid minimum wage, she was always a loving mother who emphasized our heritage and raised us by her traditional values.

Growing up, it's been difficult to figure out who I am, having been born and raised in America by a mother with deep traditional roots in Cambodia; even now I feel pulled by the two different cultures. My home life was very different from what I experienced in the "outside" world. Feeling pulled in opposite directions between upholding American customs and while trying to stay true to traditional Cambodian values, I questioned how this source of identity conflict would impact my education and beliefs. However I've realized that having exposure to both American and Cambodian values has been a source of inspiration for me to dedicate myself to seeking challenges that will enrich my educational experiences and goals. 

My clashing cultures have in essence motivated me to deepen my understandings of class curriculum. More generally, I would say that my identity struggle has taught me to seek out different ideas and be appreciative of diversity in general. I am thankful for the fact that my mother has stayed true to her roots and allowed me this opportunity of going through such a great learning experience. I know and am willing to do what it takes to be successful in my studies and furthermore, I am able to find ways to enrich my own understanding outside the classroom.

Michelle Koy