Click on each image below to learn more about each student …
Afolabi Abayomi
Country of origin: Nigeria
Current School: CCRI
Attending: University of Rhode Island
Major: Computer Engineering
I migrated into America from Nigeria in my junior year of High School. My father brought me here so I can further my studies. I had not heard much about Rhode Island, but I soon learned of the good academic system and lifestyle the students over here had, and I more than anyone wanted just that.
I am dreamer, an achiever, a survivor. I am determined to keep aiming high. It has always been difficult for me and my father to pay for my college, considering our immigration status. I was meant to attend the University of Rhode Island through the Talent Development Program right after High School, but due to my citizenship status and our financial incapability, I had to consider cheaper options, so I enrolled at the Community College of Rhode Island, majoring in Computer Programming. I am a persistent, reliable and disciplined student. From my first semester at CCRI, I worked hard and soon was invited to join the Honors Program. I have the ambition to pursue a major in Computer Engineering, merging it with a minor in Business Administration when I transfer and continue my education at URI in Fall 2019.
I currently work at a repair shop, where I am learning to fix computers, phones and many other devices so as to support my goal to major in Computer Engineering and get a head start in that field. While furthering my education at URI, I plan to apply as an intern to a tech industry, such as Google, to further my experience in the Computer Engineering field. I have dreams of completing college and to get a degree which would help me secure work after college. Also, I plan to build up a human service company and support organizations like CASO and the Tam Tran Scholarship, that grants scholarships to low income and undocumented students like myself.
Current School: CCRI
Attending: University of Rhode Island
Major: Computer Engineering
I migrated into America from Nigeria in my junior year of High School. My father brought me here so I can further my studies. I had not heard much about Rhode Island, but I soon learned of the good academic system and lifestyle the students over here had, and I more than anyone wanted just that.
I am dreamer, an achiever, a survivor. I am determined to keep aiming high. It has always been difficult for me and my father to pay for my college, considering our immigration status. I was meant to attend the University of Rhode Island through the Talent Development Program right after High School, but due to my citizenship status and our financial incapability, I had to consider cheaper options, so I enrolled at the Community College of Rhode Island, majoring in Computer Programming. I am a persistent, reliable and disciplined student. From my first semester at CCRI, I worked hard and soon was invited to join the Honors Program. I have the ambition to pursue a major in Computer Engineering, merging it with a minor in Business Administration when I transfer and continue my education at URI in Fall 2019.
I currently work at a repair shop, where I am learning to fix computers, phones and many other devices so as to support my goal to major in Computer Engineering and get a head start in that field. While furthering my education at URI, I plan to apply as an intern to a tech industry, such as Google, to further my experience in the Computer Engineering field. I have dreams of completing college and to get a degree which would help me secure work after college. Also, I plan to build up a human service company and support organizations like CASO and the Tam Tran Scholarship, that grants scholarships to low income and undocumented students like myself.
Yordi Abreu
Country of origin: The Dominican Republic
High School: Central HS
Attending: CCRI
Major: Mechanical Engineering
High School for me as an undocumented student has seemed more challenging than that
of the other students in my class. That is mainly because my options and choices compared to
the other students are limited and sometimes even non-existent. But, even after this realization I still go to school, try my hardest, and keep praying for better days.
My dream is to become a Mechanical Engineer and to do something revolutionary to make Earth a better place to live. I imagine I can create a device that would rid Planet Earth of as much man-made pollution as possible, such as ridding all of the trash in our water, the tons of chemicals being polluted into the air, and deforestation. Something to help prevent or simmer down problems that I see coming in our future. If we don't start being mindful of our actions, we may end up turning Earth into an uninhabitable planet, and then we'd have nowhere to go, leading to the end of the human race and many other species which we live alongside today.
My dreams of becoming a Mechanical Engineer came to be when I watched the movie Wall-E. This inspired me because in that movie the entire population is on a spaceship because they can't live on Earth any longer because of the pollution and deforestation caused by earlier generations. This movie showed me that if we continue to be careless towards our home, we may end up with a planet in great ruins and destruction, just like the one in the movie. As I keep thinking about this, I realize that we can fix our problems, it’s never too late. But we have to take the initiative, we have to start somewhere. And the best place to begin is by cleaning up after ourselves and turning most of our utilities to electricity that are produced from wind turbine farms or solar panel farms, and many other forms of renewable energy.
As Wall-E the movie opened my eyes to Mechanical Engineering, my love for motors and mechanical things has kept my eyes open to great possibilities. Motors are the most abundant mechanically complex tool we have achieved to create. It is my dream to be a part of the next generation of technicians that create change that would make people more environmentally conscious.
My dreams of becoming a Mechanical Engineer have been challenged simply because of my immigration status, but I will do everything in my power to succeed in even the most unprecedented situations.
High School: Central HS
Attending: CCRI
Major: Mechanical Engineering
High School for me as an undocumented student has seemed more challenging than that
of the other students in my class. That is mainly because my options and choices compared to
the other students are limited and sometimes even non-existent. But, even after this realization I still go to school, try my hardest, and keep praying for better days.
My dream is to become a Mechanical Engineer and to do something revolutionary to make Earth a better place to live. I imagine I can create a device that would rid Planet Earth of as much man-made pollution as possible, such as ridding all of the trash in our water, the tons of chemicals being polluted into the air, and deforestation. Something to help prevent or simmer down problems that I see coming in our future. If we don't start being mindful of our actions, we may end up turning Earth into an uninhabitable planet, and then we'd have nowhere to go, leading to the end of the human race and many other species which we live alongside today.
My dreams of becoming a Mechanical Engineer came to be when I watched the movie Wall-E. This inspired me because in that movie the entire population is on a spaceship because they can't live on Earth any longer because of the pollution and deforestation caused by earlier generations. This movie showed me that if we continue to be careless towards our home, we may end up with a planet in great ruins and destruction, just like the one in the movie. As I keep thinking about this, I realize that we can fix our problems, it’s never too late. But we have to take the initiative, we have to start somewhere. And the best place to begin is by cleaning up after ourselves and turning most of our utilities to electricity that are produced from wind turbine farms or solar panel farms, and many other forms of renewable energy.
As Wall-E the movie opened my eyes to Mechanical Engineering, my love for motors and mechanical things has kept my eyes open to great possibilities. Motors are the most abundant mechanically complex tool we have achieved to create. It is my dream to be a part of the next generation of technicians that create change that would make people more environmentally conscious.
My dreams of becoming a Mechanical Engineer have been challenged simply because of my immigration status, but I will do everything in my power to succeed in even the most unprecedented situations.
Carlos Andrade Cabral
Country of origin: Cape Verde
High School: Central Falls HS
Attending: Roger Williams University
Field of Study: Biomedical Engineering
I am currently a student at Roger Williams University College.
My journey for a better life began four years ago. I came from Cape Verde and was lucky to get into Central Falls High School. One of my biggest supporters at CFHS was my English teacher, Mr. Paul. He gave me a science fiction fantasy book, entitled Artemis Fowl to practice reading and pronouncing English words. The book was about a rich teenager that was an expert on the computer, plotting plans, and discovering an underworld of Fairies. I enjoyed the book so much that I started to read the whole series. This book taught me more than just English. I learned about different scientific terms that helped me in the Engineering class I was taking at the time. I began to interact with my teacher and talk about new things that I learned and how they related to class projects. Reading Artemis Fowl was good for me because it helped me understand the Engineering field in a more engaging way.
My greatest dream is to graduate from college. I have studied hard independently so that I am always improving. I have created a weekly schedule of reading, vocabulary, and math so that I could improve my English skills and also was academically ready when I finally started college. I have read about many people that achieved their goals by working hard and not giving up. I follow their example so that I too can be successful.
My parents are my biggest motivation to keep looking for better education. They were both teachers and I still see passion in their eyes when they teach at school. My mom, for example, puts hers students first and pushes them. She came from a family that sold fish and her mom would take her out of class to go sell fish. My dad sold bread before going to school every morning. I believe that if none of those obstacles stopped them to become who they are today, I will not allow anything to stop me from showing them the work they put towards me is the best thing they’ve ever done. Going to college will allow me to make my parents and family proud. I want to finish school so they can be prouder of who I am. My father always tells me, “Study hard so you can give your future children all that I did not give you.”
I will not let him down.
High School: Central Falls HS
Attending: Roger Williams University
Field of Study: Biomedical Engineering
I am currently a student at Roger Williams University College.
My journey for a better life began four years ago. I came from Cape Verde and was lucky to get into Central Falls High School. One of my biggest supporters at CFHS was my English teacher, Mr. Paul. He gave me a science fiction fantasy book, entitled Artemis Fowl to practice reading and pronouncing English words. The book was about a rich teenager that was an expert on the computer, plotting plans, and discovering an underworld of Fairies. I enjoyed the book so much that I started to read the whole series. This book taught me more than just English. I learned about different scientific terms that helped me in the Engineering class I was taking at the time. I began to interact with my teacher and talk about new things that I learned and how they related to class projects. Reading Artemis Fowl was good for me because it helped me understand the Engineering field in a more engaging way.
My greatest dream is to graduate from college. I have studied hard independently so that I am always improving. I have created a weekly schedule of reading, vocabulary, and math so that I could improve my English skills and also was academically ready when I finally started college. I have read about many people that achieved their goals by working hard and not giving up. I follow their example so that I too can be successful.
My parents are my biggest motivation to keep looking for better education. They were both teachers and I still see passion in their eyes when they teach at school. My mom, for example, puts hers students first and pushes them. She came from a family that sold fish and her mom would take her out of class to go sell fish. My dad sold bread before going to school every morning. I believe that if none of those obstacles stopped them to become who they are today, I will not allow anything to stop me from showing them the work they put towards me is the best thing they’ve ever done. Going to college will allow me to make my parents and family proud. I want to finish school so they can be prouder of who I am. My father always tells me, “Study hard so you can give your future children all that I did not give you.”
I will not let him down.
Brayan Contreras
Country of origin: Honduras
High School: Mt. Pleasant HS
Attending: Roger Williams University
Field of Study: Architectural Engineer
I promised my parents that I would plan and construct their future home.
Being a part of the Pre-Engineering Academy at Mount Pleasant High School definitely helped shape me into the “engineer” I am today. My senior class has been on field trips where we saw the incredible designs and process of enhancing our community's infrastructure on many levels. In many ways, I apply engineering principles to school projects and internships. I work doing construction services a few times a month with people that are gracious enough to allow me to assist them. I do this no matter how hard the work is, it simply is my passion to design and build. I have worked since a very early age because I enjoy working and learning new things that eventually will benefit me in the future. One thing that I have realized is that math plays a significant role when dealing with construction. And personally, I consider it very necessary.
While at work, I have been confronted with challenging projects that do not have any other purpose or demand but to be resolved in the most convenient and safe manner. I especially enjoy learning how infrastructure problems should be approached. I remember, a couple of months ago, I learned metal framing and how to cement a very purposely challenging designed pool. I especially enjoy working both indoor and outdoor, in homes, hotels, and churches.
Right now, my main focus is on finding aid to pursue an Architectural Engineering degree at Roger Williams University. The Tam Tran Scholarship will bring me closer to my dreams, which sometimes seem hard to reach because of my undocumented status. But I am determined to work hard, to find more financial aid, and to get into college.
High School: Mt. Pleasant HS
Attending: Roger Williams University
Field of Study: Architectural Engineer
I promised my parents that I would plan and construct their future home.
Being a part of the Pre-Engineering Academy at Mount Pleasant High School definitely helped shape me into the “engineer” I am today. My senior class has been on field trips where we saw the incredible designs and process of enhancing our community's infrastructure on many levels. In many ways, I apply engineering principles to school projects and internships. I work doing construction services a few times a month with people that are gracious enough to allow me to assist them. I do this no matter how hard the work is, it simply is my passion to design and build. I have worked since a very early age because I enjoy working and learning new things that eventually will benefit me in the future. One thing that I have realized is that math plays a significant role when dealing with construction. And personally, I consider it very necessary.
While at work, I have been confronted with challenging projects that do not have any other purpose or demand but to be resolved in the most convenient and safe manner. I especially enjoy learning how infrastructure problems should be approached. I remember, a couple of months ago, I learned metal framing and how to cement a very purposely challenging designed pool. I especially enjoy working both indoor and outdoor, in homes, hotels, and churches.
Right now, my main focus is on finding aid to pursue an Architectural Engineering degree at Roger Williams University. The Tam Tran Scholarship will bring me closer to my dreams, which sometimes seem hard to reach because of my undocumented status. But I am determined to work hard, to find more financial aid, and to get into college.
Darlyn Cristales
Country of origin: Guatemala
High School: Paul Cuffee High School
Attending: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Medicine
At one time, I woke up every morning being scared to be myself. Scared that someone would find out who I truly was. Being afraid that I would never be able to become the person I dreamt of becoming: a successful Doctor. That was my worst fear.
Being an Undocumented Immigrant is terrifying. Being Undocumented means living in the shadows of others, not showing the world my true identity because if I did, I would be judged. Being Undocumented means I don't belong, I don't fit in; knowing that some people want me gone because they believe that I and others like myself are bad for this country. They don't think we are capable of doing anything with our lives.
I moved to the United States from Guatemala when I was two years old. My parents came to this country because they not only wanted a better future for themselves, but also for me, their first-born child. I have often thought about the long, hard journey my parents made to bring me into this country, and everything they have provided for me since then, making sure I had everything I needed while growing up. I want to make my parents proud. I want to give back to them and thank them for everything they have done for me.
I have decided to not give up and prove those wrong who believe “Undocumented Immigrants wouldn't get anywhere in life.”
When I first learned about the DREAM ACT, I felt it was like a second chance given to me. The fear of not getting to become the person I wanted to become suddenly vanished within me. Knowing that I could possibly go to college and become the doctor I have dreamed of becoming for as long as I can remember; knowing that I had a chance to actually be successful and move on in life made me work even harder for my goals. The challenges I faced while growing up, gave me fuel, which motivated me every day to work hard and reminded me that what I am doing now will all be worth it in the long run.
High School: Paul Cuffee High School
Attending: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Medicine
At one time, I woke up every morning being scared to be myself. Scared that someone would find out who I truly was. Being afraid that I would never be able to become the person I dreamt of becoming: a successful Doctor. That was my worst fear.
Being an Undocumented Immigrant is terrifying. Being Undocumented means living in the shadows of others, not showing the world my true identity because if I did, I would be judged. Being Undocumented means I don't belong, I don't fit in; knowing that some people want me gone because they believe that I and others like myself are bad for this country. They don't think we are capable of doing anything with our lives.
I moved to the United States from Guatemala when I was two years old. My parents came to this country because they not only wanted a better future for themselves, but also for me, their first-born child. I have often thought about the long, hard journey my parents made to bring me into this country, and everything they have provided for me since then, making sure I had everything I needed while growing up. I want to make my parents proud. I want to give back to them and thank them for everything they have done for me.
I have decided to not give up and prove those wrong who believe “Undocumented Immigrants wouldn't get anywhere in life.”
When I first learned about the DREAM ACT, I felt it was like a second chance given to me. The fear of not getting to become the person I wanted to become suddenly vanished within me. Knowing that I could possibly go to college and become the doctor I have dreamed of becoming for as long as I can remember; knowing that I had a chance to actually be successful and move on in life made me work even harder for my goals. The challenges I faced while growing up, gave me fuel, which motivated me every day to work hard and reminded me that what I am doing now will all be worth it in the long run.
Stelly DaMoura
Country of origin: Cape Verde
High School: Central Falls HS
Attending: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Biology
I was a 2017 of the Tam Tran Scholarship and this is what I wrote then ➤ Click here
As I read what I wrote then, I now realize that life doesn’t always go as you want or plan. But also, reading it has definitely shown me that you have to keep fighting for what you want in life.
What I would like to say to other Undocumented Students like me is that you must not give up on their dreams because one day your dreams will become reality. Well I know you might find a lot of obstacles on the way, but they are part of life and they are made to teach you to be patient. You just have to believe in yourself and in your ability to do anything you set your mind to. Sometimes it may be hard to see a light at the end of the tunnel, but don't let that bring you down.
High School: Central Falls HS
Attending: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Biology
I was a 2017 of the Tam Tran Scholarship and this is what I wrote then ➤ Click here
As I read what I wrote then, I now realize that life doesn’t always go as you want or plan. But also, reading it has definitely shown me that you have to keep fighting for what you want in life.
What I would like to say to other Undocumented Students like me is that you must not give up on their dreams because one day your dreams will become reality. Well I know you might find a lot of obstacles on the way, but they are part of life and they are made to teach you to be patient. You just have to believe in yourself and in your ability to do anything you set your mind to. Sometimes it may be hard to see a light at the end of the tunnel, but don't let that bring you down.
Janita DeJesus
Country of origin: Curaçao
High School: Hope High School
Attending: CCRI
Field of Study: Nursing
I'm from Curaçao. When I was there, I was a student that had good grades and I still have good grades. I have two sisters that still live there. And most of my family lives there. Where I lived is so beautiful every day. I remember swimming in the crystal-clear beaches off the coast of Curaçao. It is the best place to go on vacation, because it's an unforgettable island. I still can't believe I left my beautiful country, but it was for a better education and a better opportunity. I left when my father died.
I arrived here poor and undocumented. I did not come here with a lot of clothes, just three shirts, one dress and one pair of sneakers. I was impressed with the huge buildings of downtown Rhode Island. I had never seen a place that had such huge building all around. I was amazed.
I couldn't speak English well then, but look at me now, I’m typing in English! I am so proud of myself and I know my mom, my sisters, my high school teachers, my college professors and my family are all proud of me, too. I know for sure that if my dad was still alive, he would be proud too.
High School: Hope High School
Attending: CCRI
Field of Study: Nursing
I'm from Curaçao. When I was there, I was a student that had good grades and I still have good grades. I have two sisters that still live there. And most of my family lives there. Where I lived is so beautiful every day. I remember swimming in the crystal-clear beaches off the coast of Curaçao. It is the best place to go on vacation, because it's an unforgettable island. I still can't believe I left my beautiful country, but it was for a better education and a better opportunity. I left when my father died.
I arrived here poor and undocumented. I did not come here with a lot of clothes, just three shirts, one dress and one pair of sneakers. I was impressed with the huge buildings of downtown Rhode Island. I had never seen a place that had such huge building all around. I was amazed.
I couldn't speak English well then, but look at me now, I’m typing in English! I am so proud of myself and I know my mom, my sisters, my high school teachers, my college professors and my family are all proud of me, too. I know for sure that if my dad was still alive, he would be proud too.
Sindy Hernández
Country of origin: Guatemala
High School: Central Falls High School
Attending: CCRI
Field of Study: Education | Teaching
My life as an undocumented person started roughly 15 years ago, in 1999 when my parents and I immigrated to Rhode Island from Guatemala.
As children we were told that America was the place where dreams became reality and hope wasn’t a state of mind. We believed this. I believed the stories because, well, they gave me hope. I mean anything is better than where we used to live. We believed everything was finally going to change. I was just a kid back then. I had no idea how hard reality would hit me. As time passed, I became more and more excited about what I wanted to be, I was star struck. All of a sudden, I began loving school. I fell in love with the idea of becoming a teacher; I thought that the idea of passing down my knowledge to others was something amazing. At least for me it was. Later, when middle school began, I changed my dream. I set my eyes on becoming a translator after watching what my parents were going through. Why them? Well, because I had seen how my parents were made fun of simply for not knowing English. It hurt me seeing them just lowering their heads. Was it because they were ashamed, embarrassed? I had no clue. Have you any idea how it feels to see your heroes shunned for something as petty as that? My heart shattered and I vowed that I would do everything in my power to ensure no one would experience such trauma ever again.
That dream stayed with me up until my junior year, when I became aware of my status as an undocumented person. It was then that I let people get the worst of me. They convinced me that because I was undocumented, I had no future, that I should be content with how far I had made it despite my background. I began to believe that I had nothing to fight for.
Suddenly I felt that I had been walking towards a dead-end my whole life. Why fight for something that had already ended? No point, no goal, no dream. I began to believe that someone like me wasn’t allowed to dream because it would never amount to anything else other than a dream. I gave up on myself. Worst of all, I I feel I gave up on my parents and all the sacrifices they had made for me. I wasn’t a bad kid, I just had given up on trying to fight for an education that I felt was out of my reach.
That all changed when I met two wonderful women who changed the way I thought about myself and my future. When I stopped trying, they were there to push me. They made me realize that I could fight for who I was, and what I wanted to be. They taught me to be proud of who I was. They made me realize that I was my own obstacle. That just because someone tells you that you have to walk down the path they had set out for you, it doesn’t mean it’s the only way or the right way. No one should determine the path you walk. There is no such thing as a set path. There is no rule stating that someone else has to take the first steps on a piece of dirt for it to become a path. You must create your own path and walk down proudly.
High School: Central Falls High School
Attending: CCRI
Field of Study: Education | Teaching
My life as an undocumented person started roughly 15 years ago, in 1999 when my parents and I immigrated to Rhode Island from Guatemala.
As children we were told that America was the place where dreams became reality and hope wasn’t a state of mind. We believed this. I believed the stories because, well, they gave me hope. I mean anything is better than where we used to live. We believed everything was finally going to change. I was just a kid back then. I had no idea how hard reality would hit me. As time passed, I became more and more excited about what I wanted to be, I was star struck. All of a sudden, I began loving school. I fell in love with the idea of becoming a teacher; I thought that the idea of passing down my knowledge to others was something amazing. At least for me it was. Later, when middle school began, I changed my dream. I set my eyes on becoming a translator after watching what my parents were going through. Why them? Well, because I had seen how my parents were made fun of simply for not knowing English. It hurt me seeing them just lowering their heads. Was it because they were ashamed, embarrassed? I had no clue. Have you any idea how it feels to see your heroes shunned for something as petty as that? My heart shattered and I vowed that I would do everything in my power to ensure no one would experience such trauma ever again.
That dream stayed with me up until my junior year, when I became aware of my status as an undocumented person. It was then that I let people get the worst of me. They convinced me that because I was undocumented, I had no future, that I should be content with how far I had made it despite my background. I began to believe that I had nothing to fight for.
Suddenly I felt that I had been walking towards a dead-end my whole life. Why fight for something that had already ended? No point, no goal, no dream. I began to believe that someone like me wasn’t allowed to dream because it would never amount to anything else other than a dream. I gave up on myself. Worst of all, I I feel I gave up on my parents and all the sacrifices they had made for me. I wasn’t a bad kid, I just had given up on trying to fight for an education that I felt was out of my reach.
That all changed when I met two wonderful women who changed the way I thought about myself and my future. When I stopped trying, they were there to push me. They made me realize that I could fight for who I was, and what I wanted to be. They taught me to be proud of who I was. They made me realize that I was my own obstacle. That just because someone tells you that you have to walk down the path they had set out for you, it doesn’t mean it’s the only way or the right way. No one should determine the path you walk. There is no such thing as a set path. There is no rule stating that someone else has to take the first steps on a piece of dirt for it to become a path. You must create your own path and walk down proudly.
Dayi "Lupita" Hernández
Country of origin: Guatemala
High School: Central Falls High School
Attending: CCRI
Field of Study: Early Childhood Education
I have lived in the United States of America for 15 years. I came here when I was six years old and since then, I have had the opportunity to go to school and then to work. When my parents were in Guatemala they decide to reach the American dream by coming to America. When I was born, they thought to themselves that they wanted to give me a better life and better opportunities to go to school. It was September 26, 2003 when I first landed in America. It was the start of my new life.
I graduated from Central Falls High School in 2015 and today I work in a nice place call ‘’The Children's Workshop.’’ I have worked there for a year and a half and have had some wonderful opportunities working with kids. I am very thankful for the amazing coworkers that I have because they make me feel comfortable and always encourage me by telling me to reach my dream. This job has made me realize that I want to continue my career of becoming a teacher.
I have looked hard for financially assistance for college, but it's been hard because I know that there are few resources for DACA students. But I am getting closer because of the help of many wonderful people that I have met throughout the years. I appreciate everything they do for me, and they give me the strength to work hard towards my goals and dreams in life.
I especially want to make my parents proud of me and to show them that I can and that I will be the first one in my family to go to college. They have been through a lot of hardships in life, and I would like to help them. They have always wanted to buy a house, and I want to help them achieve that dream. My family was always very supportive of me when it came to school. They always worked extra hours for me to have all that I needed. I have seen how they suffer, and that's why I want to have a better education and have a better job. I think that it's never too late for those who want to further their education and have better things in life.
High School: Central Falls High School
Attending: CCRI
Field of Study: Early Childhood Education
I have lived in the United States of America for 15 years. I came here when I was six years old and since then, I have had the opportunity to go to school and then to work. When my parents were in Guatemala they decide to reach the American dream by coming to America. When I was born, they thought to themselves that they wanted to give me a better life and better opportunities to go to school. It was September 26, 2003 when I first landed in America. It was the start of my new life.
I graduated from Central Falls High School in 2015 and today I work in a nice place call ‘’The Children's Workshop.’’ I have worked there for a year and a half and have had some wonderful opportunities working with kids. I am very thankful for the amazing coworkers that I have because they make me feel comfortable and always encourage me by telling me to reach my dream. This job has made me realize that I want to continue my career of becoming a teacher.
I have looked hard for financially assistance for college, but it's been hard because I know that there are few resources for DACA students. But I am getting closer because of the help of many wonderful people that I have met throughout the years. I appreciate everything they do for me, and they give me the strength to work hard towards my goals and dreams in life.
I especially want to make my parents proud of me and to show them that I can and that I will be the first one in my family to go to college. They have been through a lot of hardships in life, and I would like to help them. They have always wanted to buy a house, and I want to help them achieve that dream. My family was always very supportive of me when it came to school. They always worked extra hours for me to have all that I needed. I have seen how they suffer, and that's why I want to have a better education and have a better job. I think that it's never too late for those who want to further their education and have better things in life.
Luis Mendóza
Country of origin: Venezuela
Current School: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Nursing | Business
Luis is also a 2017 Tam Tran Scholarship recipient.
As a high school student, I did not feel that going to college was a good option for me. Coming from a financially challenged household, it seemed that the best option was to throw the dream of extra schooling aside and focus on more “practical” goals. However, the support of my parents, counselors, and other close ones, helped motivate me to set the goals of going to college and pursue my dream of becoming a nurse. Now that I am in college, I continue to work hard until this goal is met. Being in college is a different experience for me than when I was in high school as an undocumented student. Being a college student as an undocumented student is harder than high school, requiring extra effort. However, the work as an undocumented college student is a lot more rewarding. Being able to get past the limits that society has put on undocumented immigrants brings a more rewarding outcome. The things people said I couldn’t do, I am doing now showing the world that I am not an “illegal” immigrant that does not care to do work in this country, but a student that works harder than most and has the same goals as every other person in this country: the American Dream. As a college student, I feel that I am impacting the system a lot more than as a high school student. People will look at me knowing how much I worked and that also makes the work in college more rewarding.
To the undocumented students in high school, I will say: “keep the dream alive.” No matter what people may tell you or the obstacles that you foresee, drive yourself to your limits because, in the end they are just an “illusion.” Its’ that drive that pushes us forward and gives us the opportunity to better ourselves and the country we live in. It’s the drive that helps prove to those doubting us how wrong they were about us. We must keep moving forward.
Current School: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Nursing | Business
Luis is also a 2017 Tam Tran Scholarship recipient.
As a high school student, I did not feel that going to college was a good option for me. Coming from a financially challenged household, it seemed that the best option was to throw the dream of extra schooling aside and focus on more “practical” goals. However, the support of my parents, counselors, and other close ones, helped motivate me to set the goals of going to college and pursue my dream of becoming a nurse. Now that I am in college, I continue to work hard until this goal is met. Being in college is a different experience for me than when I was in high school as an undocumented student. Being a college student as an undocumented student is harder than high school, requiring extra effort. However, the work as an undocumented college student is a lot more rewarding. Being able to get past the limits that society has put on undocumented immigrants brings a more rewarding outcome. The things people said I couldn’t do, I am doing now showing the world that I am not an “illegal” immigrant that does not care to do work in this country, but a student that works harder than most and has the same goals as every other person in this country: the American Dream. As a college student, I feel that I am impacting the system a lot more than as a high school student. People will look at me knowing how much I worked and that also makes the work in college more rewarding.
To the undocumented students in high school, I will say: “keep the dream alive.” No matter what people may tell you or the obstacles that you foresee, drive yourself to your limits because, in the end they are just an “illusion.” Its’ that drive that pushes us forward and gives us the opportunity to better ourselves and the country we live in. It’s the drive that helps prove to those doubting us how wrong they were about us. We must keep moving forward.
Fahd Obabiyi
Country of origin: Nigeria
Current School: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Law
I was born in Lagos Nigeria. I come from a family of five: a hardworking mother, a younger sister who is now 16 and a younger brother who is now 14. My father died when I was 14. We moved to Rhode Island to start a new life and to get away from violence in Nigeria. I have learned that life is a journey. I know my Father endured a lot to build all he achieved but he died and all those things he worked hard for were left behind. That is why I am really motivated because even though he is no longer with me, his legacy still lives on and I am part of his legacy.
When I was a little boy, I had always wanted to be a doctor because my uncle is a doctor. However, growing up I realized life is not really what I want, or what I am good at. So, I asked myself what I really wanted and what I was good at. I concluded that I wanted to help people. I also thought there are other ways of helping people, so I decided to become a lawyer. As a lawyer, I can help those who cannot afford a lawyer.
Not being able to receive financial aid, loans or get an on-campus job because of my legal status is really affecting my studies. Due to not having a main source of income, I am forced to have multiple means of employment. Therefore, I barely have time for my education because my focus is on gathering money to pay my tuition. I do not want to give up on my dreams and I will stop at nothing to achieve them. Thank you for awarding me this scholarship because will take me another step closer to achieving my dreams.
Current School: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Law
I was born in Lagos Nigeria. I come from a family of five: a hardworking mother, a younger sister who is now 16 and a younger brother who is now 14. My father died when I was 14. We moved to Rhode Island to start a new life and to get away from violence in Nigeria. I have learned that life is a journey. I know my Father endured a lot to build all he achieved but he died and all those things he worked hard for were left behind. That is why I am really motivated because even though he is no longer with me, his legacy still lives on and I am part of his legacy.
When I was a little boy, I had always wanted to be a doctor because my uncle is a doctor. However, growing up I realized life is not really what I want, or what I am good at. So, I asked myself what I really wanted and what I was good at. I concluded that I wanted to help people. I also thought there are other ways of helping people, so I decided to become a lawyer. As a lawyer, I can help those who cannot afford a lawyer.
Not being able to receive financial aid, loans or get an on-campus job because of my legal status is really affecting my studies. Due to not having a main source of income, I am forced to have multiple means of employment. Therefore, I barely have time for my education because my focus is on gathering money to pay my tuition. I do not want to give up on my dreams and I will stop at nothing to achieve them. Thank you for awarding me this scholarship because will take me another step closer to achieving my dreams.
Fathia Obabiyi
Country of origin: Nigeria
High School: Juanita Sanchez HS
Attending: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Biology
I am from Nigeria. My father died when I was 12-years old and my brother and mother moved to Rhode Island soon after that.
Going through what I consider the lowest point of my life, I learned and understood life and myself a little bit better. Sometimes there are things in life that will try to stop you from going forward by creating obstacles. But I also believe that is a test, that it is always up to you to get back up and continue moving forward. After my father died and we moved here, I realize now how it changed me for the better. It made me stronger than I had ever been, made me more motivated to be successful, made me passionate about becoming the best doctor I can be. It offered me a whole new perspective of the world I live in.
The most important lesson I learned is to never give up nor lose sight of what is important. I often think back to my dad’s words of wisdom, “Adesewa, never give up, no matter what.” Those words will always be with me in every step of my life. After coming to America, I have tried to incorporate his words into every facet of my life. Thinking back, I get emotional to see how far I have come, how much I have grown, and how my story has shaped me into the person I am today. I will never forget the day that changed my life and I will always remember and honor my dad and the promise I made to him.
My dream is to become a doctor and this scholarship will help me get into college to begin that dream.
High School: Juanita Sanchez HS
Attending: Rhode Island College
Field of Study: Biology
I am from Nigeria. My father died when I was 12-years old and my brother and mother moved to Rhode Island soon after that.
Going through what I consider the lowest point of my life, I learned and understood life and myself a little bit better. Sometimes there are things in life that will try to stop you from going forward by creating obstacles. But I also believe that is a test, that it is always up to you to get back up and continue moving forward. After my father died and we moved here, I realize now how it changed me for the better. It made me stronger than I had ever been, made me more motivated to be successful, made me passionate about becoming the best doctor I can be. It offered me a whole new perspective of the world I live in.
The most important lesson I learned is to never give up nor lose sight of what is important. I often think back to my dad’s words of wisdom, “Adesewa, never give up, no matter what.” Those words will always be with me in every step of my life. After coming to America, I have tried to incorporate his words into every facet of my life. Thinking back, I get emotional to see how far I have come, how much I have grown, and how my story has shaped me into the person I am today. I will never forget the day that changed my life and I will always remember and honor my dad and the promise I made to him.
My dream is to become a doctor and this scholarship will help me get into college to begin that dream.
