Bryan Viera tells his story to the Dream Project Advisory Board
Meet Bryan
Thank you for the opportunity to share a bit of my story. My name is Bryan Viera, and I am a graduate of Marymount University, majoring in Information Technology, with a minor in Computer Science. Majoring in IT… Me. Attending college… Wow! Me in college? That is a sentence I would have never imagined myself saying just a couple of years ago.
My story began 7 years ago when I moved to this country as an undocumented immigrant coming from El Salvador. I came here fleeing the imminent danger of being swept away by rival gangs, the ever-increasing economic challenges, and the lack of opportunities to succeed and thrive. I came here not in the traditional way. I followed the path that many Dreamers take, with major risks and with great uncertainty that I would make it here alive. I traveled unaccompanied for 27 days through Central America. The journey was treacherous and unsafe, but through much effort, determination, and a great desire to improve my life and that of my family, I finally made it to the USA.
When I came to this country, I was unable to speak English, I was limited by my legal status to pursue many opportunities, and I came to live with my father whom I had not seen for 10 years. Adjusting to the many changes was very hard, much harder than I could have ever imagined. But with great perseverance and optimism and with the compassion and support of others, like the Dream Project, a path was created that would ultimately lead me to where I am today.
After being in this country for two years, I became fully proficient in English. And after three years, I graduated high school with honors. Though the educational path sounds linear and easy, along the way, I faced numerous challenges that were difficult to overcome, including financial and personal hardships. Fortunately, with the support of organizations like the Dream Project, as well as, the support of my former algebra high school teacher, who sheltered me when I didn’t have a place to call home, fed me, encouraged me, and guided me through my journey, I was able to continue to pursue and accomplish many of my dreams.
The Next Chapter
I am so proud to share that I am now a permanent resident of the United States, and as of today, I have graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Information Technology! As per my future plans, I will be looking for a full time job in Information Technology and continue to work towards fulfilling my career goals.
I would like to say thank you to the Dream Project for their ongoing support and financial resources in helping to make my dream of a higher education possible. My life has been forever changed and their work will continue to shape the lives of many others like me, with the help of partners like you.
We are honored to congratulate Bryan as he becomes a Dream Project alum- we can’t wait to see what he does next!
