Mariuxi was born and raised in Ecuador with her 9 siblings. She decided that she would immigrate to the U.S to further her education and seek to expand her opportunities. She also wanted to come to the U.S.A to study English. So, on September 10, 2001 Mariuxi left everything she knew and loved in her home country of Ecuador and traveled to Salt Lake City, Utah with her sister Monica.

When Mariuxi arrived in Utah, it was a culture shock! Although, she was educated in Ecuador, she was never fully schooled in the English language. She found herself struggling to adapt to the language and cultural differences. In addition to being challenged with language, she was also on a temporary student visa, which did not entitle her to the full benefits of citizenship. She needed full documentation if she was going to remain in the U.S.A. and realize her goals.

After living in Utah for 18 months, her ability to earn a living was limited to menial jobs, and side “gigs” to pay her bills. She began contemplating a return to Ecuador. It was at this time she decided to travel to Boston, MA to visit a friend before her return.

Traveling to Boston proved to be a great decision, because this is when she met my Dad! The rest is history, as they began dating, fell in love, and married. Mariuxi was able to obtain her documentation otherwise known as a Green Card, which led to her becoming a U.S. Citizen. To this day, she considers her citizenship ceremony one of her proudest moments in life.