Leaving the Iraq war behind, the Naoom family sought new roots. In the U.S. they face foreign challenges: birthday budgets, new medicines, and a tough job market. Was the long wait worth it?

Animal House

First days can be exhilarating, terrifying — or a mix of both. They mark the beginning of life’s chapters and define who we ultimately become. My First Day is a KPBS Explore series that explores these important days through people who came to San Diego from elsewhere, and now call it home. Produced and hosted by  Andrew Bracken.