Lilit Balayan, age 22
Journey from Yerevan, Armenia to Los Angeles, CA
Q: "What brought your family to the United States?"
A: "My father, one of my sisters, and I came in March of 2000 to have a better life. We left Yerevan, Armenia, the country's capital, because there were a lot of problems with the government and my family didn't feel safe. My mother and my other sister came in 2002."
Q: "Did you face any conflicts or obstacles upon coming to the US?"
A: "We had a lot of issues once we were in the US. My father had to beg the US government for the opportunity for the rest of our family to come and be reunited with us here. He had to be as supportive of the US as possible. He bled red, white, and blue. Fortunately, his request was granted and my family could be together here where it is a safer environment and a better future."
Q: "What were some of the adjustments you had to make after coming here?"
A: "The people are very different. It's hard to explain, but people have different personalities here. And, it's so busy. It was a lot to get used to."
Q: "What was the most rewarding aspect of moving?"
A: "Definitely the security. Being able to safely live with my family was the best part. I miss living in Armenia, but the move was worth it."
Q: "Do you still visit?"
A: "We visit ever couple of years to our family that wasn't able to come with us. Because of my father's agreement with the US government, we were able to apply for residency and are able to leave the country without issues. We just have to be careful because there are still parts about Armenia that can be dangerous. Especially since we're Americans now."