About
Hi, my name is Ju. I’m a community college student in the Bay Area. Currently, I’m studying political science, and I hope to transfer to 4-year University next year.
On July 25, 2001, I came to this country from South Korea with my mother and my sister. I was twelve years old. We came to this country with the hope of living a better life. But once we arrived here, we faced challenges because of our immigration status.
Ever since we came to this country, my mother has worked twelve hours a day, seven days a week, sacrificing her time and energy to support my education and put food on our table. Frequently, she looks exhausted and overwhelmed.
Just like my mother, my sister has a full-time job at a local Japanese restaurant. She’s also been attending community college, even though she got accepted at a prestigious art college. My sister has no choice but to work and study at the same time because she has to support our family and pay for her college. A few weeks ago, my sister had to drop out of college because of financial difficulties. Now, she’s working two shifts at the restaurant, mopping floors, and washing dishes, while other students are studying and experiencing college life.
I also work at a restaurant. It’s fortunate for me to work, but sometimes I feel humiliated when I get paid under the table and such low wages. It’s extremely difficult and frustrating, but it’s the only option I have to pay for college.
During my senior year in high school, I learned that my visa had expired and I was living here without documentation. It seemed that my hopes for the future were completely shattered. Unlike many other students, I’m unable to get a legal job, obtain a driver’s license, or receive financial aid. I don’t have access to educational opportunities that most other people take for granted. Worst of all, I’m afraid of being deported. I have nightmares about immigration enforcement knocking on my door, arresting my mom, my sister, and me. I suffer from depression. However, I have never given up on my hopes of achieving higher education.
Today, I have a 3.8GPA while I actively involve in a community. Despite my immigration status, I work hard, challenge myself, and push beyond my limitations to show that anything is possible in this country. I will continue to push myself to show be a role model to other people, especially youth in the Korean American community.
Finally, I hope that you will understand the struggles of Korean Undocumented students who are facing enormous challenges in this country. These young talented students are wishing to live a normal life and hope to contribute back to the society. The power is in your hand, I urge you to support Korean Undocumented Students and help us to pressure Senate and President Obama to pass the DREAM Act as well as comprehensive Immigration reform. I hope that you will join me.
