At Joye Law Firm, we are proud to employ a diverse team of individuals, and we are thrilled to share the inspiring story of one of our team members who recently became a U.S. citizen. Carolina, an Intake Specialist based in our North Charleston office recently pledged her allegiance to the United States. Her journey is a testament to her determination, resilience, and the support of her loved ones.
Proud of her Colombian Roots
Born and raised in Colombia, Carolina is immensely proud of her roots. “Colombia is a country with such a rich culture and background. I wouldn’t be who I am today if I hadn’t been born there,” she shares. “Most of my qualities and personality come from the people I know and my family, especially my mother.”
She also credits her time attending a rigorous and strict Catholic school in Colombia with shaping her work ethic and morals, as well as providing her with lifelong friends. “When I moved to the U.S. and graduated high school, I had over 40 credits, even though I only needed 24. Thanks to that school, I now have the best of friends with the greatest bond and another reason to visit!”
A New Home in Charleston, S.C.
Carolina’s transition to the U.S. was both bittersweet and exciting, at 18 years old she was ready for new experiences and moved to the U.S. “When we landed in Miami, I was stargazed. After vacationing there for a while, it was time to go to what I now call home: Charleston. It was so different from Miami of course and I didn’t know what to think, but I started my senior year, made some friends, and learned English within the first few months of being here. As a history enthusiast, I quickly fell in love with Charleston’s rich history and knew I was in the right place. I’m happy this is home.”
After moving to Charleston, Carolina joined Joye Law Firm as a Bilingual Intake Specialist. She served in this position for over two years before becoming a Legal Assistant.Carolina’s unique background allows her to speak to potential new clients and existing clients about their cases in their native language of Spanish or English.
Naturalization Test Time
Immigrants make up 5% of the population in South Carolina, according to the American Immigration Council.
After making the journey to the U.S., Carolina began the citizenship process and found that it was a journey of its own. “I was lucky enough to have a very supportive family, and we did everything that needed to be done. I started studying for the Naturalization test a year before I was able to take it because I wanted to be 1000% prepared for it.”
Carolina is not only driven, but she is also very competitive. She set a personal goal to pass the test on her first try and buckled down to make it happen. “All my family knew my test date was approaching, but I didn’t say anything the day before. Everyone went about their day until I texted my entire family group chat with the news that I had passed. Everyone was so happy. It was a good day.”
After passing the test, Carolina was invited to a Naturalization Ceremony at Middleton Place on June 26th. Against the backdrop of Middleton Place’s historical significance, a group of newly minted citizens were invited to celebrate their citizenship and recite the Oath of Allegiance, symbolizing their commitment to upholding the values and responsibilities bestowed upon them as Americans. Reflecting on the event, Carolina says, “The ceremony was great, and I feel so lucky to have been a part of it.”
The Value of a Strong Support System
One of the opportunities Carolina is most excited about as a new U.S. citizen is the ability to vote. “As a non-citizen, you are not allowed to vote. So, the first thing I want to do is go to the voting polls and make my difference there. The U.S. has been so good not only to me but to my family. I have a very hardworking family, and I am forever grateful for all the sacrifices they’ve made – such as leaving family, friends, and our culture – it requires bravery and strength. I’m thankful for them; my family, my mom, my dad, my two sisters, and my amazing, supportive husband. Their sacrifices and love are something to be so proud of. My success is theirs, too.”
Our team at Joye Law Firm is incredibly proud of Carolina’s accomplishments and we are grateful to have her as a member of our team. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, the support of loved ones, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Congratulations on becoming a U.S. citizen!
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