The United States welcomes over 1 million immigrants each year, and many of them seize the opportunity for a better life through a green card.
While the US is often seen as the land of opportunity, new immigrants ought to determine the right kind of work they could settle in upon arrival.
As is the norm, when flying into the US with a green card, one is required to always have a host. This host acts as a mentor/facilitator, helping one to tap into plenty of opportunities. Essentially, the host takes care of your well-being, offering hospitality and accommodation.
They are also responsible for providing guidance, support, and a buffer for any culture shock experienced by their guests. This goes on until when the guest can stand on their own financially after securing a job.
In a YouTube video, a Kenyan woman living in the United States explained that oftentimes when someone immigrates to the US, hosts often suggest seeking employment in the healthcare sector.
While securing a job in healthcare may be viewed as a straightforward route to employment and financial stability, the woman noted that it is not the only means by which one can earn money as a first-timer in the US.
She expressed that a host should offer guidance rather than pressuring someone into taking a job they are not passionate about, just for quick money.
The North-Carolina based lady noted that it is acceptable to pursue a healthcare job, so long as there is genuine interest in learning about health or if one is seeking opportunities to grow within the field.
“This is my word, si job ya kila mtu (it’s not everyone’s job). Maybe whatever I do, someone else might not handle it,” she said, adding that she works as a Ramp Agent at an airport.
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She provided an example of one of her African friends in the United States, who acknowledged being fortunate to secure a job outside the healthcare sector despite initially working there.
When asked how she ended up in healthcare, her friend revealed that she was pressured into it by her host. Her views, though controversial, shed light on the experiences many immigrants go through when they relocate to America.
Other social media users clarified that they weren’t necessarily pressured into their healthcare jobs but rather felt compelled to take them due to practical necessity.
One comment read: ‘That’s why people are pushed to do healthcare because it pays better and jobs are readily available. You will choose work and change jobs when you settle down. No one is hosting you for you to work on your dreams.’
Another user’s viewpoint is that beginning one’s career in the United States by working in healthcare, probably as a CNA is a strategic approach that can lead to more overtime opportunities and additional income.
Later on, once well-settled can an immigrant consider switching careers and have more flexibility in their choices.
