What does it really mean to leave everything behind and start over in a new country? It’s a question that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever considered, or experienced, the immigrant journey. Today, we’re diving into the story of Sumi, a career coach who shares her unique experience of moving from Hong Kong to the UK at the age of 15. This isn’t just about geography; it’s about cultural identity, career transitions, and the challenges and triumphs of finding your voice in a new world.
Usually, the episodes are about immigrants and their journey to the United States; however, I decided to include Sumi’s story because, regardless of where the immigrant is going to or coming from, the emotional aspect of the immigrant experience is the same.
Let’s get into Sumi’s story about leaving Hong Kong.
Growing Up in Hong Kong: Roots and Heritage
Sumi’s story begins in Hong Kong, but her family’s roots extend further back. Her paternal grandfather migrated from Hubei, China, during wartime. Her maternal grandparents were water people from the Canton province, living and working on boats. This heritage shaped her early life in Hong Kong.
For Sumi’s parents’ generation, staying in Hong Kong was the norm. Born, raised, educated, and employed – life revolved around Hong Kong. The era offered stability and prosperity. Finding a job wasn’t a struggle. This was the backdrop against which Sumi began to consider a different path.
The Decision to Move to the UK at 15
At 15, Sumi considered studying abroad. Sending children to the UK was a popular choice at the time, driven by the perception that the British education system was superior. High academic pressure in Hong Kong schools also played a role. Parents hoped to give their children a less stressful environment.
Sumi’s parents gave her the autonomy to choose. It was a significant responsibility for a 15-year-old. She wanted adventure, to step outside her comfort zone and experience something different. After weighing the pros and cons with her parents, she decided to study abroad. Looking back, Sumi recognizes the profound impact of that decision.
She traveled with a friend, which provided comfort when leaving her parents was difficult. Boarding school, she notes, wasn’t quite the Harry Potter experience people imagine. It was more about independence. It meant leaving home comforts behind and navigating being different from everyone else.
The Initial Culture Shocks after Leaving Hong Kong
Moving to a new country always brings culture shocks. What did Sumi experience?
The Pace of Life
One of the first major shocks was the slower pace of life in the UK. Sumi attended school in a semi-rural area. Life moved at a more relaxed speed compared to the frenetic pace of Hong Kong. People enjoyed tea, and buses weren’t always on time.
In Hong Kong, everything was fast-paced. The metro system, the MTR, ran on schedule. Even a five-minute delay would make the news and spark complaints. In the UK, a half-hour delay was normal, and train cancellations were met with patience. This contrast made Sumi realize that it was possible to live without constant stress about time.
Education and Questioning
The education system also presented a cultural shift. In Hong Kong, there was an emphasis on knowing answers. The UK system encouraged curiosity and asking questions. Sumi felt pressure to already know the answers and worried her questions might seem stupid.
She observed other students freely asking questions and sharing their thoughts. This realization challenged her ingrained beliefs. It showed her that curiosity was valued and that asking questions was encouraged.
Feeling Like an Outcast
Returning to Hong Kong during breaks brought a new set of challenges. Sumi began to feel different from her friends who had remained in Hong Kong. They had shared experiences she hadn’t been part of. It created a sense of distance and a feeling of not fully belonging. She felt like an outcast.
This realization changed her perspective on her friendships. She appreciated those who embraced her experiences in the UK. She also made efforts to understand their lives in Hong Kong. This mutual understanding helped bridge the gap and maintain those important connections.
Final Thoughts: On Leaving Hong Kong
Sumi’s advice for immigrants and those struggling to find clarity in the workplace is to treat it as an exploration. Career changes and immigration are often turbulent. There will be times of doubt and uncertainty.
Treating it as an exploration allows you to dive deeper into your values and identity. Clarity about these aspects will help you navigate life as an immigrant and thrive in the workplace.
Sumi’s journey shows that while moving to a new country presents unique challenges, it also offers opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By embracing your cultural heritage and finding your voice, you can create a fulfilling life and career, no matter where you are.
With Love, Heidy
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