Photographs of immigrant teenagers.

Q: What advice do you have for people who move to the United States?

Eunji: Ask many questions. That way, you learn about the person you are talking to. You can also learn about American culture.

Hewan: Quickly make friends in order to learn the language and culture. With their help, it is easier to settle into a new country. Friends can also make it easier to adjust to the different customs and ideas.

Liban: Be yourself. That is the main thing. Do not put yourself down. Do not let anybody put you down. Work hard. Talk to people. Ask for help if you need it. Say what you want to say (other than bad words).

Adib: Play sports to meet new people. Make an effort to be social and talk with people in your classes. This is hard at first.

Anne Rose: Get involved in everything you can. The more things you get into, the more opportunities you have to learn, understand, and appreciate life.

Manuel: I have one piece of advice. Don’t be lazy!

Key Vocabulary
  • adjust v., to become comfortable with
  • understand v., to know
  • appreciate v., to care about; to see the worth of something
In Other Words
  • put yourself down think badly of yourself
  • Make an effort Try hard
  • Get involved Be active; Take part
  • get into do
  • piece of advice helpful idea
Before You Move On

  • 1. Compare and Contrast How is the advice of these teens alike? How are their ideas different?

  • 2. Judgment Which advice do you think is most helpful? Explain why.