Interviewee: Marisol Serrano
Interviewer: Marylou Albino
Relationship: Neighbor
Date: September 29, 2002
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Philadelphia is a better place to be home.

What is your full name?

My name is Marisol Serrano.

What is your nationality?

I am Hispanic.

What is your date of birth?

I was born June 6,1974.

Where were you born?

I was born in Philadelphia.

When did you (move to the U.S./move from somewhere else in the U.S.) to Philadelphia?

I moved to Philly in February 1990.

Why did you leave your country/State/former place of residence?

I left Puerto Rico, because lack of work.

What did you like/dislike about your home/country?

I dislike being there, because no work, mosquitoes, weather and the schools.

Why did you choose Philadelphia/U.S?

I choose Philly, because I was born and raised there. Most of my family lives in Philadelphia.

How did you travel here?/What type of transportation did you use/take to travel here? How would you change that?

My transportation was an airplane. I couldn’t change it even if I wanted to.

How did you find a place to live in Philly?

I found a place to stay with my friend.

With whom did you travel? [Who did you travel with?]

I traveled by myself.

Give 1 thing you remember most about your home town and why?

I remember the weather in Puerto Rico (is very hot.)

How did your life change when you moved and what were the differences between the two places?

My life changed. I had better opportunity in jobs. There is hardly no jobs in Puerto Rico for minors.

What did you expect about the US/Philly?

I expected a better chance for life.

What did you come here to accomplish and what else do you feel you still need to do?

I came here to accomplish an education, so that I could be where I am now.

What are the differences between when you came here and now?

The difference is that I am older and wiser.

What did you sacrifice/leave behind when you left?

I sacrificed my mom and brothers.

What problems did you encounter coming to the US/Philly?

I don’t recall no problems.

How much money did you have and where did you get it when you came to Philly/US?

I had enough money, and started working right away.

How did you adapt to your new environment?

I fitted right away, it’s nothing hard living here you have to take it one day at a time.

Why do you think it was worth all your changes?

It’s like before everything for the better.

What education did you have before/after you arrived?

My education is high school. I have not finish yet.

Do you [ever] regret moving? Why or why not?

I have not regret it, because from that experience I became a better person.

What reason would/could make you go back to where you came from?

My reason is if one of my close family members passed away.

Describe your first job here. If you didn't have one, how did you get money?

My first job was in a clothing store. I was a sales representative.

Is there anything you would like to add?

Yes, I was very appreciated that Marylou picked me to do the interview. Thank You.

12/9/1999