Jasmine Du
How would you say your family’s immigration story has played a role in your life or shaped your identity?
“I never really paid attention to both of my parents’ heritage in that they came here to seek a better life. I didn’t really realize that until I went to community college two years ago. My dad’s story especially shaped my life, because he came here with nothing. When he was my age, he came here to seek a better life. He came here with nothing and the only people he had here were his siblings and maybe some family friends, but he was basically all alone. He taught me to aim high, but at the same time, don’t stress or overexert yourself because you need to make sure you’re healthy. My dad is my biggest role model and I’m very glad he supports me. I don’t think my dad and I really say ‘I love you,’ which is kind of sad. I don’t think a lot of Asian families do either, because we’re not really that affectionate. But I know my dad loves me and I love my dad, and my mom too, of course. But my dad and I have a really strong relationship even though we don’t speak as much. I hope if my dad is reading this, he knows I love him because I haven’t said it that often. Don’t take anything for granted. Really make sure you show how much you love them. I hope my parents both know they mean a lot to me and they’re a big reason why I’m the person I am today.”
