Amairany Gonzalez

Assisting people with their immigration issues is the heart of my work and the reason I treasure my career. I emigrated to the United States with my parents when I was six years old. My own experience as an immigrant has given me the capacity to relate to our clients’ stories. I had to travel a challenging path, and this experience inspired in me an appreciation for the more complicated cases that come before us. There is often a solution, no matter how hopeless the circumstances may seem. When we help clients to overcome these circumstances, it reminds me that anything is possible.

I gain significant satisfaction from my work within the Paralegal Department. Together with my teammates, we aim to create an environment in which we all feel appreciated and supported. Having experienced the opposite in work environments, I am grateful to be a part of US-ILC. My primary role includes preparing VAWA cases – not only do I oversee the paperwork, but I also utilize my English and Spanish language skills to communicate with clients who have been victims of crimes. I encourage them to share their experiences. Patience is key, since it is often difficult for them to discuss what they have been through. I write their stories for them if they cannot put it into words themselves. My background working within the humanitarian department of a previous company has been beneficial in my current role. I am constantly challenged to apply the skills I gained to various types of immigration cases.

During my youth, I dreamt of becoming a teacher as I enjoy contributing to children’s lives. I later discovered the show, Criminal Minds, and it sparked my interest in criminal law. In college, I first majored in criminal justice and my goal was to embark on a career in law enforcement. However, I was fortunate to get a position working as an intern in an immigration firm. This opportunity gave me a window into the world of immigration law, and I have loved my chosen career path ever since. Outside of work, I value spending time with my family and friends, especially attending concerts together and participating in activities such as dancing. I also love coffee, and one of my favorite pastimes is discovering new coffee shops and sampling beverages such as iced coffee with a hazelnut or caramel flavor. This is how I find balance in my work and life.