"...and as you dream, so shall you become."

I've always been hesitant to tell others about my story, not because I don't have anything to say (trust me... I have a lot!) but because I've always been too paranoid and afraid of what people might say. After all, some choose to call us "criminals" (we're not), and other awful names. But this is my chance to show whoever cares to read, my story as I see it. I have heard a lot lately, about both sides of the story, and there are a lot of misconceptions. I once read we all see our lives through a camera..what does your "opponent's" camera look like? Can you relate?

Believe me when I say, I fought tooth and fail to not have to come here. I had a wonderful and successful life (yes, at ten years old I had an excellent life) and I never noticed my parents' economic struggles. What did I know? I had food and school, and I was sure I didn't want to come here. In fact, it still makes me sad to be here sometimes. Not because I don't have any love for this country, but because I can't see my family. One of my grandmas died in my home country (which now feels so foreign...) and I have another grandma who is dying. I live two lives here and I'd give anything to go back and relax with my grandma, not having to worry about a thing. I don't know what a vacation feels like, but I'm sure it will be nice when the day comes and I can board a plane without fear.

I've been very successful here and it's paid off. I go to a top university and I have the luck to have two wonderful parents who work hard to pay for my education (no financial aid here! no freebies!). But my real dream is to do something bigger, to explore the world and help those who need it. I'm interested in Public Health to help populations that need people who want to serve them.

I am here and this is all I know. I have thought about leaving many times, but it's my dream to one day go to medical school that holds me back. You see, in my country, the only people who become doctors are those who can afford it. No one who isn't rich could ever afford the tuition, much less the books and other fees. I choose to live in the shadows because I hope one day I'll be able to accomplish this dream, and though it seems impossible at times, I refuse to give up hope. Hope and a desire to see me and my parents succeed are what keep me fighting for this, and I know I'm not the only one.

I hope other dreamies can relate...