Dozens of people went to the federal courthouse in Chattanooga and left as U.S. citizens Thursday. (Image: WTVC)

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. —

Dozens of people went to the federal courthouse in Chattanooga and left as U.S. citizens Thursday.

Judge Travis McDonough presided over the two naturalization ceremonies.

100 people took the Oath of Allegiance to become American citizens.

One of the newest citizens at the ceremony says it was a long process to get here, but he's ready for the future.

"A lot of work, a lot of work. It will be fun though," says Rashid Benaaya, who is from Morocco. "I've been enjoying my life, working hard, enjoying the water so I'm in."

Another says the U.S. has always felt like home.

"I've been living in the United States for 15 years, and I feel like everyone that I have met has really taken me in and has been really good to me, and now I feel like I'm home," says Maria Ilianvella.

The Eastern District of Tennessee will hold its next Naturalization ceremonies on November 9th.