TRANSCRIPTION
How was your relationship with your family growing up?
I grew up in a loving family. I was very close to my brothers and sisters.
Why did you drop out of school in the 5th grade?
I wanted to work and have money, and to help my father.
What were some jobs you had?
I worked in a pharmacy, as a shoe cutter and maker, a meat cutter, and with leather.
How old were you when you moved to Tijuana Mexico?
I was About 26 or 27 years old.
Why did you decide to move there?
A new experience, the music and club scene, and I had friends out there already.
How long did you live there?
I was living there for 10 years.
When did you come to the U.S.?
I came to the U.S. in 1979.
Why?
To make a better living and I had a friend who came before me and told me of the opportunities for work
How did you come to the U.S.?
I came here illegally through Tijuana. I jumped the fence.
Were you afraid of what you might encounter in the states?
No not at that time. There was so much work. I got a job right away.
What was the first job you had?
Working in a furniture upholstery factory.
When did you become a U.S. citizen?
In 1990, I had to become a resident first.
How long did it take before you became a citizen?
It took about 5 or 6 years.
Where did you first live when you got to California?
I lived in East Los Angeles.
Why did you choose not to marry for so long?
I wanted to be a bachelor forever, but I met and fell in love with your mom and decided to settle down.
Do you miss living in Mexico?
No not at all. I got used to living here.
What do you enjoy doing now that you have retired?
I love to travel and visit new places I never been to. I also like working on little projects at home.
What was the first car you ever had?
It was a blue 1958 Impala.
Would you change or do anything differently?
No I wouldn't.
Is there anything else you would like to add to this interview?
No, just that I have enjoyed my life to the fullest.
