First Team Real Estate
After a long journey that began when I first arrived in the United States, landing in Hawaii in June 1993, I finally achieved my dream of becoming an American citizen nine years later. On an October day in 2002, I joined many others in a large hall, filled with excitement, to take the oath of citizenship. My husband witnessed my happiness and pride. Achieving American citizenship was a major goal for me. During those nine years, I worked hard, studied diligently, learned a new language, adapted to a new culture, made new friends, seized new opportunities to contribute to society, & established my life here.
I started by obtaining an H1 Visa, then applied for a Green Card, and finally, reached the last step of becoming a citizen. When I realized my dream, our office celebrated during the Thursday morning meeting. Joel Spencer, from our office, gave me a big “Uncle Sam” hat to wear to symbolize this significant milestone.
Celebrating with my colleagues and my husband, I felt that I finally had the same rights and responsibilities as everyone else in this country, protected by our nation and able to fulfill my duties as a citizen. This newfound equality allowed me to continue exploring opportunities to develop my potential and work towards a bright future.
I knew how challenging it was to become an American citizen.
Many times, when the sky was still filled with stars and the freeways were nearly empty, I drove to the Los Angeles immigration building, standing in long lines to complete paperwork and submit applications. I visited my lawyer's office repeatedly to ensure all documents were correct. All of this hard work paid off, and the day finally came when I proudly became a citizen. I am grateful to America, this great country that provides new lives and dreams for so many people like me. Here, everyone is treated equally, regardless of their wealth, color, or beliefs. We are free to think, write, and speak without fear. Through my work in real estate, I have met people from from all over the world, including the Middle East, Europe, South America, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Despite our different backgrounds, we share a common love for America. One of my clients, who sold his Glenmar house in Huntington Beach, told me he had traveled to many countries but found America to be the best. Another Vietnamese client shared how he escaped from Vietnam by boat, risking his life at sea, and finally arrived in the USA.
The American government generously provided him and his family with a place to live, a monthly allowance, and opportunities to study and build a better life.
Together, we expressed our appreciation for America and how much we love this country. I am fascinated by the stories of America's founding fathers and enjoy reading books and watching TV programs about the American Revolution.
Every client I serve is a blessing, and I see my work as a way to repay America for the new life it has given me. I go above and beyond to ensure my clients get the best value when buying or selling their homes. Each day, I thank God for the opportunity to start anew. I treasure every day in the USA and each client who seeks my real estate services. I listen to them, understand their needs, and create tailored plans to achieve their goals, much like a tailor crafting a perfectly fitted suit.
Having been an American citizen for 22 years now, I never forget the day I became part of this free land with its rights and responsibilities. I always remember John F. Kennedy's words: 'Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.'
In addition to serving my real estate clients, my husband & I also support the military, especially wounded veterans, local schools, and other community services.
When my old friends ask me about life in America, my answer is always the same: Heaven! I work hard, just like everyone else in this land of freedom, to live a happy life and fulfill our duties to make America even greater.