Warren man shares experience in becoming US citizen

Jedor was originally born in Le Bourg D’Oisans in the Alps region of France. He came to the United States on a work visa with an animation company that relocated to the U.S. from France. Although he had the opportunity to remain in France and work remotely, Jedor said he decided to travel to the U.S. since it was part of his dream.

Over the years, Jedor has worked hard to go through America’s long immigration process. After moving to the United States, Jedor met his wife, Kristine Peterson, a private art and piano instructor, while they were both living in Charleston, S.C., and decided to apply for a green card.

Jedor and Peterson hired a slawyer to assist them with the citizenship process. While Jedor said it was expensive, it was a better option than trying to correctly fill out all the paperwork themselves.

Jedor applied for a second green card, but the government had an issue with its computer database, delaying the citizenship process anywhere from six months to two years.

“That kind of like slowed down the process a little bit,” Jedor said.

While waiting for a second green card, Jedor was granted an extension on his first green card. He said it took another 18 months before he was able to receive his second green card.

Despite the government’s green card delays, Jedor decided to apply for citizenship. He said the process for citizenship can take even longer, but because he was coming from France, the process was much easier.

Before becoming a citizen, Jedor had to study the history of the United States in preparation for a test in Buffalo. Out of a hundred possible questions, the exam could ask 10 questions. Jedor had to answer six correct in order to pass his citizenship test. After studying for the exam, Jedor said he quickly answered the first six questions he was asked on the test.

About a month after passing his citizenship test, Jedor took the Oath of Allegiance in Erie alongside about 30 other people from at least 12 different countries. Jedor was supported by his wife, family and friends.

“I felt really supported,” he said. “It…