When Alejandro Garrido was just a young boy, he was brought illegally to the United States by his parents.
He grew up as an exemplary student with big dreams and a bright future ahead of him.
But when he started applying for colleges, he was denied the opportunity of loans and scholarships because of his immigration status. He admits his dream became a nightmare.
"I went into a state of depression. I went into this episode of just negative energy because it was too much for me to handle,” said Alejandro.
Being undocumented prevents this double major graduate with honors in psychology and philosophy from UTPA, from living the life that many U.S. citizens yearn for.
"I do want to contribute to the United States because I think there is so much to work towards to here,” mentioned Alejandro.
The law requires public schools to educate students despite their immigration status.
But once finished with their formal education, if they do not have a social security number they have little to no hope finding a job.
Despite the circumstances, Alejandro says he will not let his legal situation dictate his happiness.
His efforts to provide a change to the immigration reform attracted international attention and now he prepares to start his next academic challenge.
"I caught the attention of universities in Canada and one university is offering me acceptance into a PHD program. They are willing to pay for my education and expenses as long as I student the effects of racism and immigration issues,” said Alejandro.
He is optimistic about his future, but often feels he has been denied the opportunity to achieve his goals in the country he loves and considers his own.
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