Anonymous

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Submitted by Anonymous on June 20, 2007 - 8:22pm.

The first time I came to the U.S., I was only 5 years old. I was supposed to stay for just a couple of months, but had to stay an extra two years because of the war in my home country. After the war ended, I went back home.

I only stayed there for three years before I realized how much I missed the United States and the more appealing life style I could have there than I ever would have if I stayed in my country. So I decided to go back to the U.S. at the age of ten. I received my tourist visa and came to live with my aunt and uncle.

I was having an amazing time here. I was a straight "A" student, I had many friends and I loved the numerous opportunities this country gave me. Finally it came time to get my drivers license, but after standing in line for two hours, I wasn't able to get it because of my expired passport and no SSN. Just then I realized that I was an illegal immigrant because I overstayed my visa. I didn't know I was illegal until that moment and it crushed me. No driving, not being able to work and as high school approached its end, I started worrying about how I would be able to get into college.

Luckily, out of the 5 schools I applied to, two did not ask for copies of a green card and the like. I was excited to be able to attend college, but knew everyday would get harder and harder since I wouldn't be able to participate in the common activities college students do. Everyday people asked me why I couldn't drive, or they asked where I was working and everyday I just told them it was complicated and I didn't want to talk about it and made up stories of why I couldn't work. I only told a few close friends of my situation which helped clear my thoughts, but it was still tough.

After four years of hard work, I graduated with honors in May 2007. I am 22 years old, with a degree in finance but no job, without a means of getting anywhere, and with the constant worry that I will be in this state forever. I pray to God everyday that Congress will pass an immigration bill soon and that I will be able to live the life I have always wanted here in the U.S. My situation falls under the DREAM Act section of the comprehensive immigration bill the Senate is trying to pass. If they pass the bill, my life, along with millions of others, would be changed forever and for the better.

State:
Illinois
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