Growing up as a first generation Nigerian-American has definitely shaped who I am. There is something special about having parents who didn't grow up in the same country as you, because they have a completely different world view. Although there isn't a set of criteria, there are some experiences we share that make us unique.
1.You’ve given up on correcting people when they say your name.
When I say "yeah, you said it right" I mean...not even close.
2. You know “acting like an American” is never good.
If you knew better, you wouldn't even try to answer that question.
3. You were simultaneously a good and bad child.
When they talked to their relatives/friends, you were the golden child, but the second you forgot to clean the dishes, you were satan's spawn.
4. Dating is completely out of the question.
It’s a big deal to even be talking to the opposite sex, but then one day they’ll ask why they don’t have grandchildren yet.
5. You have to explain traditional food to your friends.
It may look weird but it’s better than Spaghetti-Os or PB&J.
6. People ask you to speak ____ constantly.
Sorry, I sound just like you would sound trying to speak it.
7. You thought allowances were a myth.
So you’re telling me they pay you real money for every chore you do?
8. You heard the “back home” story every time you wanted something.
It’s almost like your grandpa’s “back when I was boy” stories but longer and more guilt-laced.
9. Your School/Home Personalities are complete opposites.
You’re also an expert at keeping them separate.
9. You were the translator.
They may speak English but there are always some phrases and sayings that people don’t get.
10. You never talked back to your parents.
And you never will.
11. Going to college was never an option.
College was always more of a "when" rather than an "if."
'12. You know that once you take the phone, there is no going back.
A quick hello turns into an hour conversation with all your family members and even though you know it’s a trap, you do it anyways.
13. People think you know everyone who is the same ethnicity.
I don’t actually know all the Nigerians in Kansas City.
14. You have an answer ready for every random question.
No, my parents don’t live in huts with lions and monkeys. Yes, there are cars and cement roads in Africa. No, not everyone has ebola.
15. You never went to sleepovers.
First to show up and the first to leave, always.
16. You didn't go out very much.
Unless you thought it was a big event, it wasn't even worth it.
17. If you did want to go out, you knew the system.
I can't just ask her, I need at least a week to prepare a presentation, beg, and wait.
18. You love both cultures you’re in
It’s truly the best of both worlds.
