Amid Difficulty Lies Opportunity

Below is a young man…with a powerful story!

For more info please visit www.salef.org ...a 501(c)3 - Non Profit Organization

“As the oldest of four siblings from a low-income family of six, as well as being an undocumented student, it is extremely difficult for me to pay for my education. My family migrated from Mexico ten years ago due to deteriorating economic conditions. Both of my parents did not complete an elementary education. As a result, they are part of the large minimum wage workforce in America. Due to the lack of education of my parents, and their long working hours to support our family, I grew up with minimum guidance and support. People always react with surprise when they find out all the different types of jobs I perform in order to pay for my school tuition and to help my parents and younger siblings survive. I live in an underprivileged community where drugs, gangs, and violence tempt those my age and where youth find this path as an easier way to live their lives. The Assembly Bill 540, however, has inspired and given me the opportunity to pursue a higher education. Now I look forward to obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. I resort to this unique scholarship opportunity to help me attain my educational dreams so that I can ultimately help and encourage other students in their quest for a higher education.

Since the age of eleven, I have been selling flowers and oranges on freeway exits. Consequently, I have endured hunger, discrimination, robbery, and harassment from passers by as well as from the police. The police have given me tickets, sent me in front of a judge and transported me to jail like a criminal, when my only crime was trying to survive in “The Land of Opportunities.” In retrospect, I have learned that the only way to convert an enemy is through love. In this manner, I have brushed away the institutionalized racism I have encountered. I learned that my ultimate goal, duty, and responsibility are to contribute positively to my community and to ameliorate the plight of other disadvantaged individuals who undergo discrimination and oppression.

Currently, I work forty hours a week in a restaurant and do side jobs that deal with auto mechanics, tile settings, and plumbing assistance. I use my employment to pay for my education and to assist my family economically. As I work on these jobs, I have seen lots of discrimination towards undocumented people and minorities. Education will be the only way to help my family, peers, and community so that they may be liberated from inequality.

Earning a B.A. in Mechanical Engineering will give me the capacity to reach my career goal and long-term dream to teach others the profession of becoming an engineer. In addition, earning my degree will further help me in advocating my community by being a mentor, creating scholarships, and encouraging youth to pursue a higher education. Moreover, through SALEF I plan to use my education and experience to fortify our communities and to challenge the worlds social injustices. I believe that the social progress and prosperity of our community lies on us. Without action and education we cannot create a positive change for future generations.

Although many advise me to continue my education at a community college due to financial reasons, I am determined to reach my goals and committed to show that all it takes is perseverance and a strong desire for a better future. Regardless of all these obstacles I am focused on my grades, responsibilities at home, and on educating my community on legislation affecting immigrants. I am part of the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA) and Students United to Reach Goals in Education (SURGE). Through these organizations I am realizing my short-term goal of helping to pass the Dream Act by sharing my testimony to teachers, students, congress legislators and journalists. In addition, I am assisting undocumented students in the college process. My American Dream is to get educated in order for me to instruct, assist, empower, and advocate on behalf of all those that are marginalized and neglected by an indifferent society.

Despite many upheavals and barriers I have completed my first year at Cal State LA. It has not been easy and I have been in the risk of dropping out due to lack of financial aid and yet, I always wind up making ends meet. With my job, side jobs and the generous financial aid of professors and friends, I have been able to pay for tuition. I seek from you an opportunity to reach my full potential and commitment to my community. Regardless of the myriad obstacles I will encounter along the way, I am determined to overcome each one of them with renewed motivation to continue to keep my dream alive.”