My First Job

Because I didn't understand English, and had no skills, my first job aftr I arrived at America was trimming threads in a garmentt factory. It was not an easy job. I worked many hours a day and got very tired, but the pay was very low, and there was no healthcare. So I quit. Then I worked as a domestic helper. But I didn't like it either.

So I decided to improve my English and learn my skills. I worked hard at my English and also took a home attendant training course. I passed the test, and got my certificate for a home attendant.

But getting a certificate was only the first step. I then needed to find a healthcare company that could give me health insurance and other benefits. That company had to have a union so that I could be protected by the union. At that time, it was very difficult to find a company I wanted. But I was very lucky and found one!

About Me

I am Mu Zhen Ma. I come from Canton, China. Cantonese is my first language although I also understand Mandarin. I live in Chinatown, New York City. I am retired now. I was a home attendant for more than 10 years before I retired. I liked my job then. I am married. My husband and I have been married for many years. We have three children and two grandchildren. Recently we moved into a new apartment. It is a government housing project building. It is very nice with big windows and bright rooms. Good neighborhood too. Life is getting better now after so many years of hard work. We really begin to enjoy our life better.