I identify as a true African American. I was raised in an African household, but was born in America. As a first generation American, I was raised by parents born and raised in Ghana. Because of this, being African American has shaped how I am as a person. My parents brought their African culture to America and used those values to raise my sister and me. The values and cultures of each nation are drastically different and at times may clash with each other. For example, being a stay at home mother is expected of women in Africa, yet career women are common in America. Because of this I almost combined the two values. I would love to have a fulfilling career as a dentist and then come home to a family that I take care of at the end of the day. At times these values don’t clash. This is evident when my African father “forced” me to play soccer where it’s common in both Africa and America. I made my father happy while making lasting friendships in the sport I love. Being African American has also caused me to be an extrovert. My parents are not afraid to call me out in public or make fun of me to their friends which is very common in Africa. I learned not to be easily embarrassed and more outgoing. I can identify with both nations, but it can be lonely at times. I’m too African for my American friends and too American for my African friends. Even though this is true, I have the best of both worlds by being able to experience two different cultures every single day. I love being a real African American and I will continue to pass the African culture that I learned from my parents to my children.