Hello TheDream.US,
I’m Camila, a TheDream.US Alum and FIU Grad. I came to the U.S. from Argentina when I was five. My parents had one message: “We came here so you and our sister could have a better future. We’ll work, and your only job is to study so you can get scholarships to fund your college dream.”
Senior year, I was top of my class in an IB program, but undocumented and first-gen. Counselors didn’t know how to help. Because of my status, I had to pay out-of-state tuition no matter where I went. I enrolled at Miami Dade College, worked on campus to cover what I could, and my dad rented a room in our home to make the rest happen.
I transferred to FIU on a private scholarship and after the first semester, it was rescinded because of my status. I was devastated and unsure how I’d stay. That’s when Gaby Pacheco called: TheDream.US was partnering with FIU, and I could apply.
The scholarship changed everything. It said: “We know you’re working hard. We’ll remove the financial barrier. We’ve got your back.” For the first time, I could be a regular college student—not in constant financial chaos. I graduated with a double major in Supply Chain and International Business and now work at American Express. That education opened every door that led me to this point.
Today, I give back monthly, so other students don’t face the same anxiety and uncertainty I did. And here’s the best part: American Express matches my monthly gift—doubling my impact.
Will you join me for Alumni Giving?
- Give $20 in your grad-year amount (e.g., 2021 → $20.21)
- Start $20+/month for steady support
- ⭐ Perk: Monthly donors ($20+) are invited to a virtual lunch with CEO Gaby Pacheco & Co-Founder Don Graham
Many employers match donations (including monthly). After you give, ask HR/Benefits to match your gift to TheDream.US (EIN 20-5806345 under New Venture Fund). Platforms like Benevity, YourCause, or CyberGrants make it quick.
In community,
Camila
p.s. To my South Florida Alumni, remember you can give now until Nov 20 to Give Miami Day. Go to TheDream.US page to support the next cohort of Miami Scholars.