Interview with Celia in Lombardia

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City? Lombardia

Date of Interview? April 26, 2005

Let us know a little about yourself?
I am married to a wonderful, non-typical Italian. We met in Milan through a mutual friend and it was pretty much love-at- first-sight for both of us (I don't ever admit that to him though!).

Why did you decide/have you decided to move to Italy?
I first came to Italy as a model more than 10 years ago. I stayed here for work for a number of years. To make a long story short one thing led to another and I am still here. And very happy to live in Italy.

What type of process did you go through to be able to move here?
I am lucky enough to have duel Irish/American citizenship. With the Irish citizenship I am an EU citizen and have all the rights of other EU citizens. If you have Irish heritage, like many Americans do, it is worth looking into if you are eligable. See more information http://www.irelandemb.org/fbr.html

What type of adjustment problems have you had?
I had a difficult time learning the language. I was here almost 5 years before I really learned. I was shy (have gotten over that) and most of my friends spoke English so I had little need to speak. Now I am quite fluent in Italian and sometimes they can't shut me up!

What do you wish someone had told you before you made the leap ?
Before coming here, I wish I had known I would wind up staying! I think many people (especially women) come here for a brief period and then something or someone happens and they stay.

What inside secret could you pass on to others looking to move over?
I have started a website called http://www.milanostyle.com . It is a collection of places, people, and things of interest in Milan, Italy. I am continually building it up, there is so much to learn about.

Do you have any disappointments, things you thought would happen but haven't for whatever reasons ?
I cannot complain, I chose to live here so I have to fit in. I cannot expect another culture to conform to my expectations. What I can change myself, I will change what I cannot change, I will learn to deal with.

What has changed about you since you have been here ?
I have become much more open, (overcame my shyness), I have created quality and long lasting friendships, and I have absorbed an enormous amount of culture.

Do you think that you will stay forever?
Never say "never".