Stereotypes :c

Evan 

The definition of stereotypes is a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing. The idea of stereotypes are amplified through media such as television shows. Fresh off the Boat characters are the epitome of Asian stereotypes. Evan, the over-achiever and star student, has the typical stereotype that all Asians must be smart and nerdy. I feel like that puts pressure on me, and that I have to be smart to “fit in”. It just feels like I failed the standard of being Asian every time my test or quiz scores comes back with a big fat B or even a C. I almost feel shameful even though I tell myself it doesn’t matter. People tend to pay attention to that one Asian who got an A on his/her test rather than the multiple Asians that got a B because as the definition states, it is a fixed image that the rest of the population wish to believe. 

Another thing that bothers me is why are we expected to be doctors or engineers? I went to see the doctor for an appointment. We were having small talk and he asked “What are you going to be?” I answered that I was still deciding, and then he continued saying “Well you should become a doctor since you’re Asian” and he laughed. I stood there in slight shock. To hear that from a grown-up, this proves that everybody, no matter if you’re a youngster or a grown-up, still keeps stereotypes fixed inside their minds. At one point in my life, I wanted to break away from this stereotype, and I told myself that I wanted to go to an art college.

Stereotypes bring a mix of emotions. One being irritation. People usually categorize Asians as just Chinese or just Indians, but there are so many different types of Asians out there. One time I was walking with my friends and someone who passed us said “ching chong”, It didn’t really bother me but what if I was Korean? I would have yelled “I’m Korean you *bleep*”. Okay maybe not the last part but the point is I would feel irritated that I was categorized into being Chinese even though I was a Korean.

*Also can I say that its awesome how Blogger supports gifs? It's great.