Vinita Johnson was a mere 8 years old when she immigrated to America. Born and raised in India, she became accustomed to the way of life there, yet was excited to move to America with her family. Although she feared the cultural shock, she was more excited to fly to America, because she and her young classmates believed America was actually in the clouds, but primarily because she knew that America offered her family a better future. Being the eldest of her siblings, Vinita had to quickly learn the language so she could help translate for her parents and little brothers. Yet, upon her arrival to America, she found herself struggling with learning English and feared the future. She began writing in her diary because it gave her the chance to express herself in a country where she no longer could. This diary held the sorrows of a young immigrant girl who found it easier to share her emotions on paper than it did verbally because of the language barriers. Enrolled in ESL classes throughout elementary school, she slowly began learning English and found herself adjusting to her new home. Fast forward to the present day, and Vinita is currently the Director of the Elmont ESL Program, where she teaches English to the Hispanic Community in the area. Throughout the years, she would never forget her native land of India, its people, the language, nor the food. India would always be on her Heart, but America became the land where her dreams became her opportunity. 

 

– Abishek

Relationship:  Im/migrant who arrived as a child Im/migrant who arrived as a child