The release of the documentary Melania: Twenty Days to History, which chronicles the period leading up to the second presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, has brought a specific kind of visibility to the First Lady. While the film focuses on the inner workings of a political transition, for those born in Slovenia, it serves as a reminder of a shared origin story: the journey from a small Central European nation to the complexities of American life.
For many immigrants, the decision of why I’m still here, in America is not rooted in a love for the political machinery of the United States, but in the singular opportunity for self-actualization. This attraction is often a pursuit of intellectual and personal growth that feels unattainable in one’s homeland—a drive that transcends social class or political affiliation, bridging the gap between a fashion model in New York and a student in the Midwest.
The American experience for a Slovenian immigrant often begins with a leap of faith. In one instance, that meant arriving at age 18 to pursue a liberal arts education in Indiana, eventually moving through the East Coast before settling in the remote landscape of Fairbanks, Alaska. This proves a trajectory defined by a search for a dynamic classroom experience and a level of critical inquiry that remains elusive in some post-communist educational systems.
Yet, this commitment to the “American project” is frequently questioned from afar. Family members in Slovenia often voice concerns over the systemic failures of the U.S., citing the exorbitant cost of healthcare, the prevalence of high-fructose corn syrup in the food supply, and the relentless cycle of overseas conflicts. Most pressing are the reports of mass shootings, which prompt frantic check-ins from relatives abroad, regardless of whether the violence occurred in a distant city or the quiet reaches of the North.
The Intellectual Refuge of the Liberal Arts
The draw of the United States is often found in the pedagogy of its universities. For those coming from systems where a strict, top-down approach to lecturing is the norm—where participation is discouraged and discussion is minimal—the U.S. Collegiate system offers a radical alternative. The ability to think, speak, and write critically is not merely an academic exercise; it is a tool for liberation.
In the study of art history, for example, the American classroom allows for a holistic approach to political and activist art. It provides the space for a student to craft their own lens through which to view historical objects, rather than simply absorbing the professor’s interpretation. This intellectual autonomy is a primary driver for international students seeking a level of expression that is unimaginable in their home countries.
However, the institutional landscape is shifting. In 2018, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) were central pillars of higher education, often providing scholarships to students from lesser-known nations. Today, a different trend has emerged. Many organizations that rely on federal assistance are engaging in self-censorship, stripping DEI language from their missions to avoid jeopardizing competitive funding in a volatile political climate.
Patriotism and the Outsider’s Perspective
Living as an outsider in America often means navigating the unspoken codes of national identity. A simple act, such as wearing a beanie to a hockey game, can trigger a moment of profound cultural awareness when a fellow citizen suggests removing the hat during the national anthem. In many European cultures, such a request might be viewed as a sign of excessive nationalism or political rigidity.
Yet, these interactions can also reveal the nuance of American patriotism. You’ll see those who maintain a sincere belief in the ideals of unity, freedom, and collective resilience, even while remaining deeply critical of the current administration. This distinction—loving the ideal of the country while disagreeing with its leadership—is a cornerstone of the American experience that can offer hope to those observing from the periphery.
This optimism is tested by the realities of government agency activities, particularly the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which continue to shape the lives of many immigrants. Despite this turbulence, the enduring belief remains that the majority of people—whether they are Somalis, Mexicans, or Slovenes—are fundamentally good, and that the U.S. Remains a place where one can live wholly.
A Convergence of Anthems
The emotional connection to the United States often exists alongside a lingering love for the homeland. There is a poignant contrast between the “Star Spangled Banner” and the Slovenian national anthem, Zdravljica (pronounced zdrahv-LYEE-tsah). While the former celebrates resilience and victory, the latter—which translates to “A Toast” and is technically a drinking song—emphasizes the spread of peace across borders.
The core message of Zdravljica, that “no war, no strife shall hold its sway,” serves as a necessary counterweight to the anxieties of modern American life. Blending these two perspectives—the American drive for individual expression and the Slovenian plea for global peace—creates a more complete picture of what it means to be a global citizen residing in the U.S.
| Feature | Traditional Slovenian System | U.S. Liberal Arts Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Instruction Style | Top-down, lecture-heavy | Dynamic, discussion-based |
| Student Role | Passive recipient of info | Critical analyzer/contributor |
| National Symbolism | Peace-oriented (Zdravljica) | Resilience-oriented (Banner) |
| Institutional Value | State-driven stability | Individual expression/Diversity |
The journey of an immigrant is rarely a straight line, and the reasons for staying in the U.S. Evolve over time. It begins with a scholarship or a career opportunity and matures into a commitment to a project of freedom and critical thought. While the flaws of the system are evident and often alarming, the space to develop an independent intellectual identity remains a powerful incentive.
As the U.S. Continues to navigate its political transitions and the legal complexities of immigration, the next major checkpoints for those monitoring the “American project” will be the ongoing federal court rulings regarding the legality of various DEI programs and the implementation of new immigration policies. These developments will determine whether the country remains an open harbor for those seeking a place to grow and express themselves freely.
We invite you to share your own experiences with immigration and identity in the comments below.
