FRANKFORT, Ky. — It was a day full of excitement, smiles and hugs for a special group of people in Kentucky.

Thirty-four people raised their right hands, recited the Oath of Allegiance and became the newest citizens of the United States. The Honorable Judge F. Van Tatenhove presided over the ceremony at the Watts Federal Building in Frankfort.

After years of waiting, 32-year-old Jessica Segura finally has a certificate of naturalization in her hands. Segura has lived in the U.S. for 12 years. She grew up in the north of Mexico and but left in 2012 when she was 21. Segura came to the states by herself for love and moved to Frankfort. She started a family and has two children. She said moving to a new country was scary.

“It was very terrifying. It was shocking. You get a culture shock. Especially for the language. I had to learn English here. I did pretty well. It just took me a year. It was fine, it was a challenge.” Segura explained.

Segura was one of 34 people who were sworn in and naturalized. Kentucky Secretary of State, Michael Adams, R-Ky. was on hand for the emotional ceremony. Segura beamed with happiness.

“It feels amazing!” Segura said with a smile. “It’s one less worry for me. I’m just very proud of all the challenges I had to accomplish.”

31-year-old Pratik Patel also became a citizen. He is originally from India, but now lives in Florence. He came to the U.S. in 2017 with his brother and sister for a better life. Now, he too is an American citizen.

“Very happy!” Patel said. “It’s very happiest day for my life!”

The next naturalization ceremony will be on Sept. 15.