Letter from Milenia, 2022 Dream Project Alumni
Like many others, my parents left Bolivia, longing for a better life in the US. It was the hardest decision they ever had to make. They had to leave everything they knew behind, including my sister and me, and start over from literally nothing. Six years later, I came to the US with nothing but a backpack, the hopes of being reunited with my parents, and a better future.
For me, higher education was not only the key to that future but also a way to repay my parents for their hard work and sacrifices. However, due to my family’s financial hardships, college seemed unattainable. Out of necessity, I had to dedicate significant imagination and self-advocacy to gain academic opportunities. After many years of being a high-achieving scholar, I earned scholarships that allowed me to focus solely on my education. I did not have to get extra loans or do work study. My financial freedom allowed me to accomplish many things. I was President of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, an undergraduate research assistant for Professor Muller’s lab, and an engineering tutor. When I’m not studying, I work out, go for runs, or hang out with friends.
Trying to navigate college as a low-income, first-generation DACA student–as well as a woman of color in the engineering field–was one of the most significant challenges I ever faced. There were so many moments of self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy. There were so many times I felt overwhelmed and unprepared. Regardless, I never gave up, and I made sure to learn from my mistakes.
As I embark on this next chapter in my life, I want to thank everyone who believed and supported me along the way. I’m excited to begin my Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at Stanford, researching renewable energy and sustainable technology. No matter where I go or end up, I will never forget my roots, those who helped me, and those who still need help. None of this would have been possible without the Dream Project.
I’m excited to begin my Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering at Stanford, researching renewable energy and sustainable technology.”
-Milenia, Dream Project Alum
Never Give Up
My journey has definitely taught me resiliency. It taught me to believe in myself and never give up. Even when things get hard, the difficult times don’t last forever. Those difficult times brought my family closer. They have been my rock during the hard times.
I’d also like to thank the supporters, scholarship donors, and volunteers for the immense support I received over the past four years through the Dream Project. My gratitude for your contribution to my future success is immeasurable.
-Milenia, Dream Project Alumni
Help Make Student Dreams a Reality
Thanks to you, we were able to award a record-breaking $3,000 in scholarships to each of the 100 students this year. We also provided Beyond12 coaching for first-year college students, a mentoring program for high school juniors and seniors, emergency funding, support, case management, and connections to community resources for students and their families. Together, we helped more than 300 immigrant students.
