America has huge potential, and it is a very merit-based economy that gives opportunities to everybody. Its economic engine, especially after the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, became very strong and has continued to grow from the late 1800s, particularly the 1890s, until today. It has continually reinvented itself by creating new economic sectors through innovation, such as the internet, GPS, e-commerce, and now artificial intelligence.

I think the best part of America is its ability to attract and retain top scientists, educators, and management leaders. It's not just about attracting talent but also retaining it. Despite the negative news you may hear, people experience a great deal of personal freedom here. They feel empowered to pursue their goals and celebrate their cultural traditions while still being part of American society.

America is a land of immigrants, and that is what fuels new ideas, new technologies, and continued innovation. The one expectation is that you work very hard. Across professions—whether you are an educator, scientist, medical doctor, lawyer, or in any other occupation—hard work and education are highly valued. The community is well integrated rather than isolated.

America is a land of immigrants — and that is what fuels new ideas, new technologies, and continued innovation.

We live in both worlds. We remain culturally connected to India and enjoy the cultural programs that come here. We host our own Festival of India every year, and on August 15 we celebrate India's Independence Day. At the same time, we also feel that we belong to this country.

It is interesting to see this transition. Are you Indian first or American first? Are you an American Indian or an Indian American? Those are questions many immigrants reflect on.

One of the main reasons people migrate to America is not so much for themselves as for their children. They want them to receive the best education and have every opportunity to realize their full potential. That is why so many immigrants come here, whether from India or from other parts of the world.

— Jagdish N. Sheth, Padma Bhushan Awardee and Charles H. Kellstadt Professor of Business in the Goizueta Business School at Emory University.