Becoming American: Teenagers and Immigration

It has been a challenge to balance and assimilate into my American culture while maintaining my Indian roots and background. I'm a typical teenage girl who loves to go to the mall with friends; however, I have the remarkable opportunity to be involved in a traditional Indian lifestyle. Our place of worship, the Sri Venkateswara Temple, is an important part of my spiritual life. I particularly love the Indian classical dance called Kuchipudi, which often tells the tales of the gods and goddesses of Indian culture.

— Nidhi V. Pamidimukkala, age 16