1. The American Dream

Throughout many years, many Hispanic immigrants leave their home and come to the United States for the “American Dream”. Over the course of the years, the American Dream has changed for many Americans but foremost has stayed the same for most Hispanics: a better life. A better life for themselves and also their children and the children of their children. America is known to give many opportunities that are not offered back in Mexico. America on the other hand, has better jobs, schools, colleges and an easier way of living.

2. Crossing the Border

Many Hispanics that come to the United States cross the border illegally. This is because it can take many years to get a work visa and passport. Also, many Mexicans do not have the funds to apply for a work visa or passport. Most salaries barely cover basic bills like groceries, electric, water, and rent. This is why many Mexicans reserve their one and only opportunity of crossing the border illegally. To cross the border, there are men referred to as “coyotes”, who lead them through the desert. Day and night, immigrants walk miles and miles until they reach the Mexican- American border.

3. Across the Border

Once these immigrants have successfully crossed the border either by jumping the wall, through underground tunnels, or using the river, they are left on their own to seek out and start a new life. Some are able to contact family members that reside within the United States. Many Hispanics are left to fend for themselves with nothing but hope and thrill. Crossing into a whole new country, not knowing the language or customs is intimidating. Some of these Mexicans do not have a way of asking for help or getting help.

4. First Generation Children

I am first generation and the eldest of my family. As a young child, I remember both of my parents asking me to help translate in stores, important phone calls and sometimes even documents. I remember watching my parents struggle to communicate with others who did not speak Spanish. There are still times today my dad will ask me how to spell or how to say certain words in English. Now as an adult, I try to help other Hispanics who struggle to communicate because I saw the struggles of an immigrant firsthand.

5. Fear of a Child

A child's biggest fear is losing their parents. Being the daughter of immigrant parents, intensified this fear. My parents would drive about 20 minutes every morning to take me to elementary school. I did not understand why my parents had picked an elementary school so far away when there was an elementary school right across the street. As any curious child, I asked my parents why I couldn’t go to the school across the street. Their response has stuck with me until this day, “If something happens to us, and we cannot pick you up, your aunt and grandma can easily pick you up”.

6. Separation of Families

One of the consequences that come along with crossing the border illegally is the separation of families. When I was in fifth grade, my mother had applied for her residency, but because she crossed the border illegally, she was punished by being sent back to Mexico for 10 years before even considering her residency. Since then my family has been separated, there are many others who I grew up with who also have gone through the same experience. A few did move together to Mexico and others, like myself have separated families.

7. Support

It is important to learn and help other immigrants who have come to America. Many of them are terrified and do not know how to ask for help or where to turn to. It is especially important to aid those who are children of immigrants or even more so immigrant children. Providing the right kind of support makes this new transition easier and overall much-needed. As a first generation child, I truly wish I had the “big” sister to guide me through the obstacle's life has thrown my way.