Citizenship

My Somalia student, Farhijio, passed her citizenship test. I went to her signing in ceremony on Wedesday. Her husband Abdi received his citizenship papers in December. There was a very nice program at Rose Wagner Hall with 199 people receiving their citizenship. Farhijio is a delightful lady and speaks quite good English. She is learning to read. She never had the opportunity to attend school in Somalia.

This was the first time I had met her husband. He is amazing. They have been in the U.S. for nine years and have four daughters. When he first came to Utah he worked too full time jobs and studied English. He now is a counselor for Workforce Services, is attending the U of U and helps with translation in five different languages. He told me his childhood was a waste because he could not attend school. He said he has felt like he did not belong anywhere until he received his citizenship. Now he feels like he belongs.