From the Philippines to the Bay: The Journey of Anna Galay

Interview by Keegan Donofrio

Anna came over here from the Philippines when she was about 10, and although she wasn't enthusiastic about the idea then; over time, she has come to like living here. Since then, she has also lived in numerous locations in the SF Bay Area. After meeting her in 2009, we have since kept in contact, and I could not have interviewed a finer person.

Video Guide
Part 1: Growing up in the Philippines, School in the Philippines
Part 2: Moving to the U.S.: When, Where, and Why
Part 3: Expectations of the U.S., Balikbayan Boxes
Part 4: Comparison between U.S. and P.I., Balikbayan Boxes #2
Part 5: Final Thoughts, On Going Back, and the American Dream

Part 1 of 5 of the Interview
Information on where she's from, her family, growing up, and schooling in the Philippines.

Part 2 of 5 of the Interview

Three W's of moving to the U.S. (When, where, and why?)

Part 3 of 5 of the Interview

Preconceptions about moving to/living in the U.S., a bit about Balikbayan Boxes

Part 4 of 5 of the Interview

A comparison of the U.S. and the Philippines, on keeping in contact with family back home, another Balikbayan box bit

Part 5 of 5 of the Interview

Reflections on moving to the U.S., reactions to going back to visit, and the American Dream