Hi! Thanks so much for checking out my fundraiser for my graduate studies. If you'd like to learn more about me, please read my story below:

 

"I'm a 24-year-old native Spanish speaker and former resident of Mamaroneck, New York. I graduated from Mamaroneck High School in 2016 and earned my bachelor's degree in political science from York College of the City University of New York in 2021. After college, I moved to Claremont, California, to pursue my master's degree in public policy and evaluation at Claremont Graduate University (CGU). Let me be straightforward - I need help paying tuition.

 

When I was two years old, my family immigrated to the United States from Guatemala. In August 2002, my parents made the difficult decision to leave our home country and break the cycle of poverty and violence that my family was destined for had we stayed. In pursuit of the American Dream, my parents sought to give me a better future than they could have ever imagined for themselves. As I began to attend and progress through school in the Promised Land, I quickly learned English and developed genuine connections with my peers. However, not everything was sunshine and roses.

 

Growing up as an immigrant, I inevitably encountered several barriers in the U.S. education system. Up until high school, I was bullied for being different. I grew to loathe myself for being an "outsider"; I struggled to accept myself for simply having been born in a different country. In addition, I was barred from many scholarship opportunities and thus had little motivation to pursue a college education, let alone a postgraduate one. But as the years passed, I discovered that I have a purpose in this world and began to feel the power of hope in the face of overwhelming odds. My parents brought me to this country for a reason, and I won't let their sacrifices be in vain.

 

I developed a lot of resilience as an immigrant youth. Simply walking on the streets knowing that I could be deported for existing is an act of resistance that I no longer fear. Having started and finished college during the years of the Trump Administration, which was actively trying to get rid of me, is an act of resistance that I'm incredibly proud of. Having earned a spot on my college's Dean's List four times is an act of resistance that shows my capacity as a student. Going to work is an act of resistance that allows me to support myself. I refuse to keep living in the shadows. I'm undocumented, unafraid, and unapologetic.

 

My career goal is to become an elected official. I want to be in a position of power to directly influence the laws, policies, and programs that impact our lives on a daily basis (of course, this requires U.S. citizenship, but I'll build that bridge when I get there). I want to leverage my lived experiences as an undocumented youth and scholar to give disenfranchised communities the representation they deserve. I'm pursuing a postgraduate education so that I can prepare myself for that challenge. Communities of color need leaders who will act in our best interests. With an education from CGU, I will be equipped to collaborate with scholars and future leaders who want to make the world a better place. I want to inspire meaningful change across the state of California, the U.S., and the world.

 

I find my inspiration to pursue a master's degree from several sources. My parents have taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance in the face of unprecedented challenges. My brother, Kevin, has taught me to stand up to bullies and be proud of who I am; I'm undocumented and I own it. My friends also inspire me - their unwavering support has helped me during my most difficult times. I'll always be grateful to everyone who has made a positive impact on my life. While my story is not one that you might hear often, I wish to note that there is a substantial amount of immigrant youth that strives to achieve a high level of education for a chance at the American Dream. Everyone's story is unique, and everyone's struggles are important. Our struggles help us grow - I know mine have shaped me into the visionary I am today. I learn something new every day, and the knowledge that I gain through my experiences, as well as from the people I meet and the alliances that I forge, will better prepare me for the future.

 

While I have proven myself resilient time and time again, I know I can't take the world on alone. My life has been an uphill battle to be on equal footing as many of my fellow Americans. If you are able, I humbly ask that you consider donating to my campaign. Any amount helps and is an indication that you recognize and support my cause. More importantly, it demonstrates that you believe in me. Please also spread the word. I want to inspire people to take difficult challenges head-on and pursue their dreams. I want people to know who I am, how I've come this far, and my goals for the future."