The Somali people have faced many challenges in the past and present. These challenges have made them grow as a culture and become stronger as individuals and as a whole. It is important to analyze culture, gender roles and family roles when working with the Somali community. To understand Somali culture it is essential to know what happened to them in the past. According to Castel and Kurata, throughout history the Somali people have been subjected to harsh oppression by dictators (2004). This dictatorship led many to flee the country to the United States to find a better home for them and their families (Castel & Kurata, 2004). Many families who have fled Somalia eventually reunite with the other individuals who fled before them. For many Somalis who have arrived in the United States they have difficulty assimilating into different cultural ways (Castel & Kurata, 2004). Many Somali individuals are judged based on their appearance and the way they dress. Somali women wear the traditional hijab and when other individuals see it they immediately discriminate and judge their customs. There are some people in the United States who look at Somali families and think they should start dressing like “real Americans” and acting like they fit in. It is also very common for Somali children to argue with their classmates because of their culture. At school, many Somali children are seen fighting with African American students because African American students do not understand the cultural differences they have with Somali students (Castel & Kurata, 2004). Many schools have to meet with parents to try to make everyone understand the cultural differences between all students and teach the...... middle of paper ...... a big problem about names or the fact that women they are now major breadwinners. I couldn't imagine sitting at home taking care of children and household chores. I would have to go out and get a job to play a major role in my family income. This experience helped me gain a sense of professionalism. I learned how important it is to do all your research before jumping into the interview. I have also developed personally through everything I have learned. I have learned that it is important to maintain my cultural and religious customs so that I can pass them on to my children when I get to that point in my life. This multicultural experience has given me a lot of knowledge that I will carry with me into my professional career. My research with Somali culture has given me a starting point to learn about the heir's gender, family roles and their culture as a whole.