What is it like to be the oldest sibling?

I love my siblings, but being the oldest isn't always easy. After a long day, all I want is to rest, but instead, I'm doing homework, calming someone down, or cleaning up. Aunque me saquen el tapón, I still love them deeply. Being the oldest teaches you how to be responsible early on—how to cook, change diapers, and care for others like a second parent. By the time you're 20, you already feel like you've lived the life of a mom or dad. So when someone asks if I want kids, I say, "No thanks, I'm good for now." It's hard, but I wouldn't trade them for anything.

What is it like to be a first-generation student?
Being first-generation, especially as the oldest and as a women, means carrying more than just your own goals. I have to balance school, work, and family responsibilities, and figure out everything on my own. I'm not just "sitting in class." I'm dealing with assignments, constant deadlines, emails, and graduation requirements. My parents can't pay for my education like many American parents can, so I work to cover my costs. And honestly, I think doing it this way teaches responsibility. It's stressful, but I'm proud of what I've achieved.

What is it like to be an immigrant student?
Being an immigrant student means working twice as hard for half the chances. I've gotten good grades, built experience, and been told I'm the perfect candidate for after-school jobs and teaching roles. But once they ask about my immigration status, everything stops. It's frustrating to feel how a simple piece of paper decides your future. Sometimes I wonder if I've wasted time and money chasing a dream that I might never be able to become a teacher. But I keep pushing because my story matters—and I know it's not over yet.

What's something you're proud of right now?
In just two weeks, I'll be graduating from Hartnell College with two majors—Math and Spanish Culture—while also finishing my first semester at CSUMB, where I'm studying Spanish Culture and Chicano Studies. Professor Escamilla inspired me to add Chicano Studies, and I'm really glad I did.

Even with a full schedule, I still make time to visit my old high school and help ELD students when I don't have class. I don't get paid for it, but I go because I want to inspire them, just like someone inspired me when I was in ELD. I want them to see that no matter where you start, you can go further.

Yesterday, I went to a small ceremony at Hartnell College, where I received an award for graduating. I never thought I would get this far, and honestly, I still can't believe I'm graduating in just two weeks. It was a proud moment and a reminder of how far I've come.

I want to say thank you to Mi CASA, EOPS, and everyone who supports immigrant students like me—with books, resources, or simply believing in us. Your support truly makes a difference, and I'm deeply thankful.

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