Lost by Van

Lost by Van - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

"What about you?"
Everyone turns back to ask me. We're talking about plans after high school, places to visit, and job options. All things I'm uncertain about because I am undocumented.
In 2021, my worst fear arrived when I got viral gastroenteritis and needed treatments from the hospital, the cost of my visit was potential flarings, fear of deportation, and one heavy bill for my uninsured health. Still, I entered college while working three jobs. Despite my attempts, the abusive work environments, rent, and medical bills swallowed all my health and motivation. I failed miserably and had no choice but to drop out of school to ensure my living situation.
I wonder how much longer I can keep going, how long I can lie to friends, how long will I continue to be stuck in this limbo. It's a constant reminder that "regular" life is a luxury far out of my reach. The majority of my struggles and anxieties stem from my undocumented status. It started to anger me, how something I have no control over could define my limit.
I began searching for change by learning about my rights and reaching out to fellow undocumented individuals. They taught me to be my own advocate and helped open my eyes to new opportunities, something I couldn't achieve if I was alone. Through this process, I found valuable resources and a supportive community. By focusing my energy on what I can do, I continue to harness strength, and build resiliency. With this new mindset, I returned to school in 2022. I worked hard being a full-time student while having a full-time job. I learned to appreciate the little things in life, I finally got a car, I'm less fearful about my status, I started to have hope in my dream. I realized, my biggest limit was not this administration and its policies, but, myself.
I want to have a career, I want an apartment, I want to travel, I want to move to a city.
And I'll do as much as I can. Because my dedication and effort are what define me.