INTERVIEW WITH AN EXPAT: GET TIPS AND ADVICE FROM A FILIPINO EXPAT LIVING IN THE USA
Maria Grace C. is a Filipino Expat who relocated to the United States in 2014. Maria Grace, who works in the healthcare industry, relocated to North Dakota, USA with her family. Read about Maria Grace’s experience moving to the USA as a Filipino Expat, and learn who she turned to for support.
MARIA GRACE C.
Q. DID YOU RELOCATE WITH FAMILY? CHILDREN? HOW ARE THEY ADJUSTING TO RELOCATING? WHAT DO THEY ENJOY MOST ABOUT THEIR NEW COUNTRY?
A. Yes. I relocated here together with my husband and 2 kids. They are adjusting so well. They enjoy every minute of our being together as a whole family in this new country.
Q. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR FIRST FEW MONTHS IN YOUR NEW LOCATION? ANY CHALLENGES? IF SO, HOW DID YOU RESOLVE THEM?
A. A big adjustment of course. Coming from a third world country and settling in a developed country is a bit a challenge because there [are] no relatives to call in for help. But I am so thankful we got new found friends that are God given treasures.
Q. NOW THAT YOU ARE SETTLING IN, IS THERE A BIG CHANGE IN CULTURE? DID YOU FIND ANY HELPFUL RESOURCES FOR EXPATS?
A. Not that much change because in the Philippines, more people are so liberated already and that coming here is not that much of a big change in the culture.
Q. ARE THERE ANY TIPS YOU WOULD GIVE TO A FRIEND OR FELLOW EXPAT THAT YOU WISH SOMEONE SHARED WITH YOU BEFORE YOU BEGAN YOUR FOREIGN ASSIGNMENT/RELOCATION?
A. Just be a good alien. Follow the rules and regulations and all will be fine.
