## Pathways to American Citizenship: Meet Wat For Wat, becoming a United States citizen was the culmination of years of perseverance, determination, and hard work.

His journey began as an international student and continued through practical training, an H-1B visa, permanent residency, and finally, U.S. citizenship. Each step represented another milestone toward building a life in America. But Wat's story didn't end when he took the Oath of Allegiance. Along the way, he has helped more than 30 people achieve their own dream of becoming U.S. citizens. From completing applications and gathering documents to interpreting for older adults and preparing applicants for their citizenship interviews, Wat has walked alongside others on one of the most meaningful journeys of their lives. Today, he continues to give back by using his accounting expertise to support small businesses and nonprofit organizations serving immigrants and refugees. > "Becoming a U.S. citizen has allowed me not only to achieve my own dreams, but also to help others build better lives and pursue their own American Dream." To Wat, being an American means having a voice and the opportunity to contribute to the future of the country through civic participation and community service. He believes America's greatest strength is its diversity—the people, cultures, and experiences that come together to create opportunity and innovation. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Wat reflects on a nation that has continued to grow through both challenges and progress. His hope is to keep sharing his voice, serving his community, and helping leave the country better than he found it. His American Dream is not only to build a successful and healthy life for himself, but to create opportunities for others to do the same. #NewAmericanPathways #250th