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fearful and I wanted to hide again. But the biggest blessing of this whole situation is that it motivated me to fight. I have had interviews with the South Carolina State Newspaper to tell my story. I have been in multiple videos, have done multiple interviews for documentaries and articles, I have also spoken in front of Legislative committees to further advocate for DACA. I have refused to quit. I want to fight for my rights but also the rights of all the other students who share my dream.
What does your daily life look like (both in school and out) - what struggles do you face because of your status? My every day is very busy. I am a full time student, president of a student organization on campus and Publicity and expansion for the Beta Xi Chapter of Kappa Delta Chi and, I am opening a business. My day will start at 7:00 am and it does not end until 2:00-3:00 am. I love to be active in my community. One struggle I constantly face is that I forget I am still not seen as an equal in society. I forget that I still can’t do a lot of things that regular citizens can. I also can’t legally own the business I am helping start because if in the event i get deported, the company will dissolve.
What is something you would like to say to people that wish to appeal DACA?
I definitely want to tell them to heavily consider how DACA has affected the lives of so many people. Some of these people are students, doctors, paramedics, business owners, lawyers, and everyday workers. With the help of DACA many people have been able to buy homes and legally work to help support their family. They are able to do all the things they have ever wanted in a legal manner.
What has DACA done for you, and why is it important for it to remain intact?
DACA allowed me to pursue higher education and brought a sense of safety and stability for my family and I. Because of DACA I was able to obtain a driver’s license, hold numerous jobs, participate in internships, and feel protected from deportation. But DACA was only temporary and I think that we need and deserve a permanent solution.
The Emerald | Fall 2017