CUNY Citizenship Now

Melina Lito: Volunteer Corps Member

Q.  Tell us about yourself--do either you or a family member have a personal immigration story?
A.  "Yes, I am an immigrant. I was born in Albania and raised in Greece before moving to the United States and becoming a U.S. Citizen. Moving to America was a life-changing experience because of the opportunities available. It was not an easy transition and there are challenges along the way, but definitely worth making!"

Q. How many times have you volunteered at our events? And what makes you keep coming back?
A.  "I began volunteering shortly after I got sworn in to the New York Bar. I continue to come back because of the rewarding feeling I get by making a difference in someone’s life and perhaps giving them a chance for a better tomorrow."

Q. What’s one of your most memorable moments as a volunteer with Citizenship Now? And why?
A.  "My first event because I was just so scared and nervous."

Q. Why do you volunteer with the NYC/CUNY Citizenship Now! Volunteer Corps?
A.  "I approach each volunteering opportunity as a chance to contribute to the community. Having been through different immigration systems including in the United States, I can relate to how challenging and stressful these issues can be."

Q. What do you enjoy most at our events?
A.  "I enjoy interacting with my fellow volunteers and the diversity that the Citizenship Now community offers."

Q. In what way(s) has volunteering with Citizenship Now! impacted you personally?
A.  "I have become a more attentive listener. I like paying attention to details and in this setting, I have learned how to sort through to the important details because some details are more important than others."

Q. Has your knowledge of immigration law improved because of the time you have spent volunteering with us? What have you learned?
A.  "Yes, my knowledge of immigration law has improved especially from the trainings. I really enjoy going to the trainings."