"I'm so happy I was able to get my high school diploma, and now I even have my Associate's Degree, which I never thought would be possible. Without USCRI, there is no way I could have started my career here."

- Moo Mon, an ethnic Karen refugee from Burma and client of USCRI Des Moines
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Moo Mon's Story
I was 20 years old and my brother was 16 when we arrived in Des Moines. The city was a huge place. There were so many differences. I got lost many times, even inside the apartment! I was a little familiar with English, but it was still hard to understand what people were saying.

My USCRI case manager helped us get settled into our new life. He found our apartment and helped me with my first job. The hardest part of coming to the U.S. was learning that I was too old to go to high school. I thought I would never have a chance to go to school... Through Job Corps, I got my high school equivalency and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate.

I worked as a CNA at a retirement community while studying at Des Moines Area Community College. I graduated in May with an Associate's Degree in Human Services! I’m so happy I was able to get my high school diploma, and now I even have my Associate's Degree, which I never thought would be possible.

When you first come to the U.S., it’s like you are a baby again – everything is new. If there is no one who can help you with the basic things, there is no way you can go far. Without USCRI, there is no way I could have started my career here. I recently applied for citizenship and hope to become a U.S. citizen soon!

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