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Six years ago, Spanish Teacher Gaby Ackert began her journey to become an American citizen. The seventh grade Spanish teacher came to the United States seven years ago, when she left her teaching position at a University in Ecuador to attend Westchester Community College as an exchange student. While living in Carmel, she met her husband, fell in love and decided to get married – and set a personal goal to become a citizen of the United States.

Ackert’s long road to citizenship
Ackert’s first step to becoming an American citizen was to apply for permanent residency. A permanent resident, also known as a “green card holder,” must be lawfully admitted to the United States. Ackert lived as a permanent resident for three years before she was eligible to apply for American citizenship, which took approximately seven months to complete.

On February 13, Ackert took a written test about United States history and civics and underwent a personal interview. She was asked a variety of questions, including who wrote the national anthem and how many stripes are on the American flag. On February 22, she traveled to Manhattan to attend her Oath Ceremony with her husband, father-in-law, mother-in-law and son. She took an Oath of Allegiance and received her Certificate of Naturalization, which states that she is now an American citizen.

“The Oath Ceremony was very moving,” said Ackert. “It was a wonderful experience to share with my family.”

Advantages to becoming an American citizen
As an American citizen, a foreign-born person is granted all of the rights American born persons have, such as the right to vote, the right to governmental jobs and the freedom to travel with an American passport which provides entry without a visa into many countries.

In addition, Ackert is able to petition for her immediate family members to become American citizens through a much faster petitioning process. Ackert is applying to sponsor her parents to come to the United States as permanent residents. When they receive their citizenship, they will apply for her brothers.

“The United States offers so many opportunities,” said Ackert. “Freedom of speech, freedom of assembly – the Constitution gives you those freedoms. You can really improve your way of living.”

Life as an American citizen
Although she misses her family and her native country, Ackert has no regrets about becoming a citizen of the U. S.

“I strongly love the country and its culture and people, and I want to be a part of it,” she said. “I was meant to be here.”

This is Ackert’s second year teaching Spanish at the C. J. Hooker Middle School. In addition, she is the co-advisor to the Young Hispanic Leadership club and Spanish Dancing club.

“The Goshen environment is very supportive and professional and the kids are excellent,” she said.

Requirements to becoming an American Citizen
According to U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the general requirements for American citizenship include:

• A period of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
• Residence in a particular USCIS District prior to filing;
• An ability to read, write and speak English;
• A knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
• Good moral character;
• Attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and,
• Favorable disposition toward the United States.