Considerations for Foreign-Born High School Students in the United States

For an average American citizen who was born and raised in the United States, going to high school can be a challenge. There is so much pressure. Navigating all of the obstacles and expectations can be incredibly difficult when you are a teenager. From getting good grades to excelling in sports and doing it all while thriving socially is a lot. For a high school student that comes from another country, these challenges are even more pronounced and the journey can be that much more formidable.

While there will undoubtedly be many hurdles and hiccups on the road to getting a diploma for a foreign-born student, there are also many opportunities to benefit from. The Atlanta family immigration attorneys at Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. understand that going to school in a new country can be scary, but despite the challenges, there are several advantages.

What to Expect as a Foreign-Born High School Student in the U.S. 

The first and most obvious challenge is the language barrier. Unless you learned English in your home country, you would have to learn it in the United States to better and more easily communicate with your teachers and your peers. Most school districts do have bilingual teachers, but having a teacher who is able to communicate with you throughout the day, all day, may not be practical. At home, with assignments and books in English, it can be difficult to stay on top of work and studies. Making it a priority to learn English can help students adjust to the environment in American high schools.

Next, cultural differences can also hinder foreign-born high school students. The cultural norms in the U.S. can be very different from what they are in a student’s country of origin and that exist within their homes in the U.S. Trying to balance one’s cultural background while also trying to fit in at school can be hard, but not impossible. Knowing ahead of time that this juggling act can lead to rejection or stress, can better prepare yourself for this difficult aspect of going to school in the U.S.

Disparities in income and the ability to secure gainful employment by a foreign-born immigrant high school child’s parents can be another source of distress. The good news is that many school districts have programs to support immigrant students both personally and with academic opportunities so that they too, can have the ability to strive and set the foundation to prosper in the country.

In many school districts across the country, there is a great deal of diversity. So, because of this, immigrant students may not feel isolated or like they stand out, but rather have a better chance of assimilating and fitting in.

Last, since there are so many people who desire to come to the United States to study and better themselves, taking advantage of the elite academic institutions that the country offers, there are several opportunities for grants to go to schools that are strictly for immigrant students.

Speak with an Atlanta Immigration Attorney Today 

Being a high schooler is not easy for anyone, but there are certain additional hurdles that immigrant students can face. Still, there are many benefits and opportunities that immigrant students can gain when learning in the United States.

For a consultation to discuss your needs and case, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611. One of our Atlanta, GA, immigration lawyers is here for you and ready to help.