My parents were engineers. In the 1970s, they came to the United States as refugees from Uganda. Seeing everything this country did for my family inspired me to want to give back through public service.

The quote by Reshma Saujani highlights the powerful influence of her family background and immigrant experience on her values and motivations. She begins by sharing that her parents were engineers who came to the United States as refugees from Uganda in the 1970s. This sets the stage for understanding the challenges her family faced and the resilience they showed in building a new life in a foreign country.

Saujani’s reflection reveals a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities that the United States provided her family. The phrase “seeing everything this country did for my family” shows that she recognizes and appreciates the support and chances for growth that came from her new home. This gratitude fuels her desire to give back to society, which she chooses to do through public service.

The origin of this quote lies in Saujani’s personal journey as the child of refugees and her experiences witnessing her family’s transformation and success in the U.S. It illustrates how the immigrant story can inspire a commitment to community and civic responsibility. Her words emphasize the importance of paying forward the kindness and opportunities one receives.

Ultimately, this quote is a testament to the power of gratitude and the drive to make a positive impact. It reflects how personal history and family experiences can shape one’s purpose and dedication to serving others.