New Americans at SLCC: As a Refugee, What the Fourth of July Means to Me

Man in graduating cap and gown with woman next to him

Aye Chan and President Huftalin at SLCC Commencement this year.

The Fourth of July is a day of significance for all of us in America, but holds an even deeper meaning for those who have recently obtained their US citizenship. Aye Chan, a refugee from Myanmar who received his citizenship, shares his story and what this holiday as a new American means to him.

When did you receive your citizenship:

I got my citizenship on September 21, 2022.

Where are you originally from:

I was born in a country called Myanmar. However, when I was six years old, my family and I had to leave Myanmar, and we lived in a Thai refugee camp for seven years. Eventually, on December 15, 2015, we arrived in the United States.

What brought you to the US:

My family decided to move to the US because Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) has experienced long-standing political instability, ethnic and religious conflict, economic hardship and natural disasters. Many people left because of this same reason. Here in the US, we have access to education and many opportunities that can lead to a different path. The US has a long-standing tradition of protecting human rights and offering refuge to those fleeing persecution and conflict. This country has a well-established legal framework that provides avenues for individuals who seek asylum and protection from persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group.

What brought you to SLCC and what are you studying/doing now:

I enrolled at SLCC to embark on my college journey, thanks to the generous financial support of my high school mentor. Currently, I am working towards earning my associate’s degree in business. Excitingly, I have been accepted for transfer to the University of Utah, where I will continue my education starting this fall.

What does it mean to you to become an American Citizen:

Obtaining American citizenship grants me legal protection and stability. It means I can enjoy the rights and privileges guaranteed by the US Constitution, such as freedom of speech, religion and assembly. Additionally, I gain the ability to live and work in the United States indefinitely, without fear of deportation or forced return to my home country. American citizenship also provides access to healthcare, education, social welfare programs and legal assistance.

As someone who loves traveling, I can now freely explore the world using a US passport. This allows me to benefit from consular services and protection while abroad. Citizenship provides me with the opportunity to sponsor family members for immigration, potentially reuniting with my family that I have been separated from due to my refugee status. And I can vote.

What does the Fourth of July mean to you:

It represents a celebration of freedom, independence, and the rights and opportunities that come with being a citizen. Also, I can honor the values of equality, liberty and justice that are fundamental to American society. I can build a new life in an adopted country.

How will you celebrate the 4th this year:

I am taking classes this summer so I will just be busy with homework, but I would like to do some fireworks and have a BBQ with friends.

SLCC's Undergraduate Annual Research Conference Registration Deadline

Salt Lake Community College’s annual Undergraduate Projects, Performances, Presentations, and Research Conference (UP3RC) is set to take place on April 2, at the Taylorsville Redwood Campus, offering students a chance to showcase their academic achievements, fostering a culture of intellectual exchange. The UP3RC is an annual event designed to celebrate and highlight the academic accomplishments of undergraduate students. It provides a supportive environment for students to share their work, hone their presentations skills, receive constructive feedback, and engage in meaningful discussions with their peers and faculty. All SLCC departments and programs, including faculty and staff, are encouraged to support and visit the day of the event. Students with their poster from last year's UPRC event “The goal of this event is to make sure every school and student is given the opportunity to participate,” says Dr. Kamal Bewar, interim director of the STEM Learning Center, who is chairin

Rev Up Your Future at SLCC Annuals Hop into College

SLCC West Valley Center will be opening its doors on Friday, August 2, from 6-9 pm for their annual lowrider event that celebrates the automotive culture and welcomes current, past, and future Bruins into the SLCC community. This unique event allows lowriders to showcase their vehicles and for spectators to witness the creativity, craftsmanship, and passion that goes into a lowrider car. From the sleek custom paint jobs to the impressive hydraulics showcased at the hop-off, attendees get immersed in the vibrant culture created by SLCC West Valley’s community. Beyond the car show, Hop into College provides prospective students and their families the opportunity to explore SLCC, engage with their future peers, staff and faculty and obtain valuable insight into the degrees and programs offered. Furthermore, the community is provided with countless beneficial resources not only as an SLCC student but as a community member. Whether interested in learning more about the lowrider community o

HB 261 and HB 257 Frequently Asked Questions

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students: The Utah Legislature recently passed two bills that significantly impact higher education: HB 261 Equal Opportunity Initiatives and HB 257 Sex-Based Designations for Privacy, Anti-Bullying, and Women’s Opportunities. Salt Lake Community College is deeply committed to our students, faculty, and staff. We strive to be a place where all are welcomed and respected. While there are many unknowns about the ultimate effect these bills will have on some student and staff support programs, be assured that SLCC will maintain an environment where all can find success and feel a sense of belonging. In the coming months, college leadership will work to gain clarity and determine the changes necessary for legislative compliance. We will also share this information as it becomes available. We realize that during this time, some in our college community may feel unsettled and stressed. We encourage you to make use of available SLCC resources designed to support y

Official SLCC Blog

Search This Blog