Good morning.
Thank you, Dr
Scan for your introduction
and for your kind invitation to celebrate this incredible moment.
Thank you, Judge Gunn for leading the Oath of Alliance
macarthur High school students.
You are the future leaders
and knowing the meaningful words of our Constitution's preamble will
empower you in the next chapters of your life.
It is my privilege to share this great nation, America
with you
throughout our lives. We cross thresholds,
all
obstacles often stand in the way of our goals.
Would you persevere
as we understand
that conquering them will provide great access to personal development,
fulfillment
and even eventually self
a
for me
reaching the milestone of American citizenship
marked the sunrise of certainty.
At that exact moment.
I forever discarded the layer of burden connected with whether
I would be able to live in the United States.
I hope you are blanketed
with similar feelings of comfort right now.
Finally,
I could plan all of the aspects of my life.
I recall feeling a tremendous sense of pride
and belonging after I resided
the United States Oath of Alliance
as the pathway to citizenship is arduous.
I was born and raised
in the picturesque country of Slovenia
where my parents taught me the importance of a strong work ethic
and pursuing my dreams,
the values they instilled in me at an early age,
inspired my fashion and modeling career
and brought me to the beautiful cities of Paris and Milan
while working internationally
had its share of rules and regulations.
It wasn't until I moved to New York City in 1996
that this system truly tested my determination
upon my arrival.
I immediately knew
that I wanted to make the United States my permanent home.
With the goal of securing a worker visa.
I began researching
visiting consulates
and embassies
and compiling the required records of my work experiences.
Quickly, my life turned into a labyrinth of organizing paperwork.
Back then,
the convenience of technology,
document filing did not really exist to the extent it does today,
patience and preserver
became my constant companions
as I navigated through this interstate
web,
which I am sure you can all relate to.
Even if every time consuming.
My dream of becoming a citizen pushed me to
meticulously gather every last piece of information required,
ensuring
that no detail was overlooked.
My personal experience of traversing the challenges of the immigration process,
opened my eyes to the harsh realities people face including you
who to try to become us citizens.
Then of course,
there are nuances of understanding the United States immigration laws
and the complex legal language contained there
I was very devoted,
but I certainly was not an attorney.
And eventually
it provides critical for me
to retain council.
I was fortunate to do so.
Ultimately, my journey was streamlined
and brought me over the finish line as a naturalized citizen.
While challenges were numerous,
there were rewards
were well worth effort.
I applaud you for every step you took,
every obstacle you overcome
and every sacrifice you made.
It is an honor to stand with you in these hollow
halls today in the presence of the Declaration of Independence.
The very document on which our founding fathers carefully composed
the words that capture their ideals surrounding individual liberty.
And this Great Republic,
arguably
one of the most important documents of all time
becoming an American
citizen comes with responsibility.
It means actively participating in the
democratic process and guarding our freedom.
It also means leading by example and contributing to our society.
It is a life altering experience
that takes time, determination
and sometimes even tremendous strength.
You are now a part of a nation
with a rich history of progress,
innovation
and resilience.
Though you come from 25 different countries,
your dreams and inspirations intertwine
with those who came before you
since 7076
and together
shaped the future of this extraordinary country.
Be proud of yourself, stand your ground
and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
You are American,
be a beacon of inspiration for your Children
and those who follow in your footsteps.
May our journey continue to be filled with endless possibilities
and may our contributions enrich the fabrics
of this great nation.
Congratulations again.
Great.