Beyond the Office: Senior Human Resources Generalist Shares Her Path to Naturalized Citizenship

Andrea Curtis, REPKON USA’s Senior Human Resources Generalist in Tampa, proudly became a U.S. citizen on November 13, 2025.

Andrea outlined the extensive process to become a citizen, including taking an exam, completing an interview, and attending her naturalization ceremony.

Andrea is originally from Colombia and has lived in America for eight years. In addition to the lengthy path to citizenship, Andrea also overcame the challenge of moving to an English-speaking country.

“My first language is Spanish. When you learn a new language as an adult, it’s difficult,” said Andrea. “I studied my career in Spanish, so when I came here, I had to relearn everything in English – even everyday computer programs.”

Those initial challenges are now a thing of the past. Andrea already has a new goal – to begin her master’s degree in human resources. She also hopes to take university-level classes to perfect her English in an office setting.

These endeavors will be especially valuable at REPKON USA, whose employees eagerly supported Andrea and attended her naturalization ceremony – the last and most significant moment in her path to becoming an American

“Every time I received a letter about the next step, I was so excited. The ceremony was like closing a book,” said Andrea. “I’m so happy to be a citizen.”

Congratulations!