Suusandy K.
- Iowa
What does America mean to you?
By Suusandy K.
Des Moines, Iowa
My parents, like many, left their country to fulfill their dreams. Traveling over 30 hours to America, determined to discover new beginnings. My mom, born in Laos, arrived with $100 leaving all behind. Without English, her struggle paved my path. My dad, from Myanmar, arrived at 26, alone after his parents’ deaths. America hugged them tightly and gave me the opportunity to go to school each day, get medical treatment when sick, and accomplish my goals of becoming a nurse. America to me, is a land of hope and opportunity where immigrants and their families can build a better life.
America's Field Trip
Engaging students nationwide to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
This contest invites students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them — and earn the opportunity to travel for field trip experiences at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.