The Importance Of Self Doubt In Post-Secondary Education

As an uncommented student I have faced a lot of academic struggle and self doubt, because of my immigration status, the limited access to resources, and the negative stigma undocumented individuals face. The self doubt came from a lack of awareness, and that led to my decision of not even attempting to attend college. That self doubt led to the doubt of others, it led to almost failing every single class, it led to depression, it almost led to suicide. Seeing all the resources my friends had access to and noticing how much those resources motivated and pushed them to strive for a college degree, it isolated me, which made me feel unwelcome. At the time the California Dream Act was enacted into law on October 8, 2011, which was probably the best day of my life. It shifted my whole view on post secondary
I did not have that assistance nor push when I was starting off high school, so I wanted to offer that extra push so my peers can see themselves beyond required education. My status may have pushed me away from pursuing a college degree, but now it has become a motivator to pursue that degree, and even surpass it. I am now a dreamer, and being a dreamer is much more than being undocumented, its about putting aside your fear and being able to share your story. When undocumented individuals see representation on college campuses, they are motivated to do the same, it becomes a domino effect. My contribution to the undocumented community, its offering that representation, and reassure anyone who believes they can’t attend or even be admitted to a college campus. I am living proof that it is possible to attend a college, regardless of your status. I never saw any representation, so I want to be a part of that representation, and set an example for the next generation of