All Are Welcome: Hui Li's Story

Country of origin?
China

Why did you leave China?
I left my country and moved to New York because I got married, and my husband lived in the U.S.

Did you come to the U.S. by yourself or with family? Did you have family here already?
I came by myself, but I did have family in the U.S. already.

What has your journey been like?
I felt like it was a new start of my life which was totally different than before, also it was a huge challenge.

How did you find out about the Y? How has the Y helped you on your journey?
I found out about the Y online. I really appreciate the Y because they helped me a lot. They helped me speak English, and I met a lot of amazing people here. They've taught me so much. The Y was just like my second home.

What has been the most difficult part about the transition to a new country?
The most difficult part about the transition to New York was improving my English and finding a new job.

What do you miss most about China?
I miss my parents, family, and friends so much.

What do you like most about NYC?
I love a lot of things in NYC - the people and food.

What are you most looking forward to now?
I am looking forward to getting a job and home renovations.

Is there anything you’d like to say to other new immigrants in NYC?
I just want to tell them you are really so good; be confident, keep learning, and just do it.

Is there anything else that is especially important for us to tell New Yorkers about immigrants and stories like yours?
The people who had to brave moving to a new country all had their own reasons and different impressive stories. If New Yorkers could be more patient, that is so good.