Country of Origin: Mexico
Age of Arrival: 2 years old
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Degree: Undeclared
I will be a first-generation college student. I want to succeed not only for my parents but for my grandparents too. They’re my motivation. Without this access to higher education, I would be working to try and help my parents. Now, thanks to TheDream.US, I can focus on my education and know that, in the future, I will be able to help my parents and my siblings. I plan to study either forensic science or forensic psychology.
My parents came to this country to seek new opportunities and to better our lives. My father never had the opportunity to go to high school; he didn’t even finish middle school. My mother finished middle school but didn’t go to high school either. My younger sister Stephanie has developmental delays, and I’m the one who helps my mom daily.
I was only two years old when my family moved to the United States. Everything was very different at first, because I didn’t know the language. When I started kindergarten, many kids made fun of me for not speaking English. As I got older, I had to get used to the idea of not being from here and that I was going to be treated differently. I felt like people were always staring at me because I looked different, because I am Mexican.
I learned that I was undocumented when I was 10. My parents told me that, as I got older, I wouldn’t have the same opportunities that my sisters would, since they’re U.S. citizens. I wouldn’t be able to get a job like them. Growing up, I had to get used to the idea that I wouldn’t be able to go to college. That all changed with TheDream.US.
I would tell potential TheDream.US applicants to take this opportunity and work hard for what you want. At first, it’s going to be hard, but in the end, it’s all going to be worth it. Just imagine the smiles on your family members when they see you cross that stage and receive your diploma. Always stay positive and be happy.