We like to present articles from our members, with a focus on personal and global parenting and community issues. Please contact our Executive Director at the PRC office with your ideas.
Like many people that leave their native country, my family and I came to the United States to seek the "American Dream. My name is Rhina Arevalo. I am from El Salvador and arrived in this country 12 years ago after a long wait to receive my green card. This is my story.
One by one, my family moved to this country in search of a better life. I was the last to arrive. In fact, my father lived in Port Washington for more than 15 years without his children. My brother and I lived in El Salvador, alone, for three years. My brother left before me and I waited for nine months until my papers were issued by the United States embassy. I finally arrived in the United States on November 12, 1995.
Coming to live in this country was a big challenge in every imaginable wayÑthe language, weather, and customs. The hardest part was the language. Even though I had some knowledge of English, I often did not feel confident when trying to express myself. I also began to feel homesick, but I knew it was time to start working toward a future in my new homeland.
I started by taking English classes at Queensborough College. Soon everyday chores became easier and I was getting more comfortable with the people around me. In fact, I began to feel less homesickwith each passing day. I will always be grateful for the support of my parents and cousin who got me through a difficult transition.
While in El Salvador, I became a Registered Nurse and worked for a few years before leaving for the United States. Eager to return to the healthcare profession, I enrolled in a Nuclear Medicine and Health Information Program in 1999 at Molloy College and graduated in May 2003. After graduation, the real journey began. Looking for a job was not easy. Interviewing and driving long distances to meet with potential employers was difficult. Finally, I went to work for a Gastroenterology group in Manhasset. I was able to use both Spanish and English to help some of the Hispanic patients that were being treated. Translating procedures and scheduling appointments was part of my daily routine. It was a wonderful experience in every aspect. I made new friends and was happy that I was doing what I love mostÑwork in the medical field.
My husband Rudy and I were married in June 2004. We decided to establish our new family in Port Washington and remain in close proximity to my parents, brother and sister in-law. Later we were blessed with our two beautiful children. Laura Nicole, a wonderful 3-year-olddaughter. and an amazing baby boy, Rudy Alexandre, 21-months-old. At the moment, they are the only grandchildren. My parents are an essential part of our family. For Hispanics. elders arethe base and provide unconditionalsupport. I am lucky because my parents love my children deeply. They have beena wonderfulsupport for my husband and me. Many of you knowmy father. He is so caring and loving to my two little ones. He teaches them in simplethings like planting flowers with Laura or playing cars with Rudy.
I joined the PRC in 2005. Dora Castillo told me about the program and I can say that joining the PRC was a special moment for my children and me. We enjoy sharing with other moms and their children, while making friends for a lifetime. In fact, my brother married a very special girl that happens to bethe sister of a friend from the PRC. Life just goes around and gives us surprises in the most unexpected places.
The PRC is a wonderful family where you feel welcome and at home. The staff cares for every child and parent and provides a safe and well-established place for our kids to grow. Today, I am a volunteer and I can assure you that it is the most rewarding experience to be part of the PRC family.
Thank you.
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