My Story: Undocumented but Succeeding & Going to College

As delivered by Hector Rojas at the Immigration Reform Forum with Congressman Sam Farr, July 2, 2009: My name is Hector Rojas. I came to the U.S. at the age of 5.

I can’t imagine living anywhere but the United States. It’s all I know.

My parents left my brother and myself in Mexico with my grandparents when they came to the United States. We didn’t see our parents for three years. My parents weren’t able to hear me say my first word or take my first step. My brother, only an infant when they left, called our father “uncle”, when we were reunited, because he didn’t recognize him.

Congressman, how would you feel if your son didn’t recognize you?

My parents work hard and I love them. We don’t rely on public assistance and never have. My mother worked in the fields for years until my father found a small space to rent and start a family owned meat store. But, despite my father working two jobs and my mother working, together, they barely make enough for our rent and food.

Is this the American dream?

My parents’ journey inspires me to work hard. I graduated in the top 21, was involved in sports and many other clubs. I am not a gang member or any of the stereotypes that come with those who are undocumented. I will be the first in my family to graduate from college, but, I don’t qualify for financial aid and there are little to no scholarships for students in my situation.

Congressman- my family has given hard work to this country and in turn, this great country has given us great opportunities, but, I represent millions of students who live in fear everyday. It doesn’t matter how high my GPA is or how hard my parents work; we are American in every way, but on paper.

My friend Leticia passed on a $40,000 scholarship so that I could receive it and be able to go to school. My family will always be grateful for her generosity. Thank you, Leticia.

I plan to return to Salinas after I graduate and be a math teacher. If every undocumented student had a friend like Leticia, I wouldn’t be here today. But, they don’t. Congressman, the future generation of teachers, engineers and doctors need your help to pass an immigration reform

Thank you, sir