Question

3. Working with Sources. Assume you had to move to another country. Where would you move? Would you, like Mukherjee, assimilate into your new culture, or would you, like her sister, retain your own cultural values? Write an essay comparing life in your new country with life in the United States. (If you have already moved from another country, compare your life in the United States with your life in your country of origin.) Include at least one quotation from Mukherjee's essay in your introduction, and be sure to document the quotation and to include a works-cited page. (See Chapter 14 for information on MLA documentation.)​

Answer 1

If I had to move to another country, my choice would depend on various factors such as language, culture, job opportunities, political stability, quality of life, and personal preferences. However, for the purpose of this essay, let's assume I would move to Canada.

When considering assimilation into the new culture or retaining my own cultural values, it is essential to approach the topic from a personal standpoint. Just like Mukherjee and her sister, individuals may have different inclinations when it comes to adapting to a new culture. Some individuals embrace the opportunity to immerse themselves fully in the new country's customs, language, and way of life, while others may prefer to preserve and uphold their own cultural heritage.

In the essay, I would compare life in Canada with life in the United States, highlighting similarities and differences based on personal experience or through research. It's important to note that these are general comparisons and may vary for individuals based on their perspective and circumstances.

One aspect to consider is the cultural diversity and inclusiveness found in both countries. Both the United States and Canada have societies that are built upon a multicultural foundation, celebrating the contributions of various ethnic groups. Mukherjee's essay could be referenced to emphasize this point, using her quotes to highlight the challenges and rewards of embracing cultural diversity in a new country.

In terms of economic opportunities, the United States is renowned for its thriving job market and entrepreneurial spirit. The essay could discuss the American dream and the opportunities it offers for personal growth and success. On the other hand, Canada is known for its strong social support systems, high quality of life, and accessibility to healthcare and education. Mukherjee's essay could be utilized to explore the benefits and drawbacks of the American dream, and how it compares to the Canadian way of life.

Furthermore, the essay could explore the different immigration policies and experiences between the two countries, shedding light on the various paths to citizenship and the integration process. Mukherjee's essay could be used to discuss the challenges faced by immigrants and their journeys toward assimilation or the preservation of cultural values.

In conclusion, moving to a new country involves a complex decision-making process. The choice between assimilating into the new culture or retaining one's cultural values is subjective and varies from individual to individual. When comparing life in the United States with life in another country, such as Canada, it is important to consider aspects such as cultural diversity, economic opportunities, and integration experiences. Mukherjee's essay would provide valuable insights to support the arguments made within the essay and reflect upon the challenges and rewards of navigating a new cultural landscape.