An Undocumented Student's Journey to UW Medicine

"It was like a whole other world opened up," Alejandra laughs, recalling her first days at the University of Washington. "I mean, I was a transfer student, a DACA recipient, and suddenly I was surrounded by all these brilliant minds. It was intimidating, but also incredibly exciting."

Alejandra, now a chingona medical student at UW, constantly inspires me with her resilience. But getting there? Let me tell you, it wasn't easy.

Our Clark College Days

We both started our college journeys at Clark College, a community college right here in Vancouver, WA, where we could chase our academic dreams without the crushing weight of a four-year university tuition or the added costs of living away from home.

As undocumented students, we relied heavily on scholarships.

Unlike our peers from similar socioeconomic backgrounds who could access federal financial aid, we were ineligible for FAFSA, making scholarships our lifeline.

When they say you have to work twice as hard when you're the underdog, that was us. Many scholarships required us to maintain a 3.5 GPA or higher, a daunting task when you're also working long hours to support yourself.

The pressure was intense, and those early semesters were a blur of late-night study sessions, fueled by endless cups of coffee and the constant fear of falling short

I dropped physics TWICE, because I because I was terrified of not getting at least a B.

Alejandra's experience mirrored mine in many ways. "I didn't even know if I could go to college," she admits. "There was so much uncertainty, so much fear." We both gravitated towards science, drawn to the complexities of biology and microbiology.

And let's be real, those "weed-out" courses – chemistry, physics, calculus – were brutal! We quickly learned that having a study buddy was essential. Luckily, we found that in each other.

"I remember walking into that chemistry class," Alejandra recalls, "and seeing another Latina face. I just knew I had to be her friend."

And I'm so glad she did! We spent countless hours simplifying complex concepts, quizzing each other, and celebrating each small victory.

Beyond the Books: Balancing Work, Life, and the Pursuit of a Dream

College wasn't just about academics; it was a constant balancing act. Unlike many of our peers, we had to work throughout our studies. I juggled classes with late-night shifts busing tables and working as a cashier. Alejandra faced similar challenges, often working 40-50 hours a week while maintaining a full course load.

"It was definitely a struggle," she admits. "There were times when I felt like I was drowning."

Looking back, I wish I had known about programs like Running Start, which allows high school students to earn college credit. It could have saved me time and money.

But we learned to adapt, to be resourceful, and to make the most of our community college experience.

The Scholarship Grind: Turning Rejection into Resilience

"I applied to so many scholarships," Alejandra laughs. "I lost count! But every time I got a rejection, I just revised my essay and tried again."

Scholarships were our lifeline. We spent hours crafting essays, pouring our hearts and souls into each application. I remember the frustration of rejections, the sting of feeling overlooked. But I also remember the thrill of each acceptance, the validation that our stories mattered.

Alejandra, with the support of the "I Have a Dream" Foundation, became a scholarship whiz. She applied for everything – local, regional, and even national scholarships. Her advice? "Don't underestimate yourself. Share your story authentically, and don't be afraid to ask for help."

Here are some resources that were invaluable to us as undocumented students:

• The Washington State Need Grant: This grant was a game-changer for me, providing much-needed financial assistance for students in Washington State (including undocumented students)

• The Community Foundation: They offer a variety of scholarships for undocumented students in Clark County.

• Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce: Provides scholarships and support to Latino students in SW Washington and Oregon.

Don't be afraid to reach out! Contact your college's financial aid office. They can often provide guidance and connect you with resources you might not be aware of.

Medical School turned a reality for Ale!

"I'm still processing it all," Alejandra admits. "It's a dream come true."

Now, Alejandra is a medical student at the University of Washington. A DACA recipient in medical school? It's still rare, but she's proving it's possible.

"It's a whole new world," she reflects. "I'm learning to navigate a complex system, to advocate for myself, and to find my voice within a predominantly white, privileged institution." She adds, "It's definitely a different ballgame from undergrad, but I'm ready for the challenge."

Her journey is an inspiration, a testament to the power of perseverance, the strength of community, and the unwavering belief in the possibility of a brighter future.

Are you also interested in pursuing a career in Medicine as an undocumented student? Share your story!

We know that the path to medical school can seem daunting, especially for undocumented students. But Alejandra's story is proof that it's possible! We want to hear from you. What are your dreams? What challenges have you faced? What advice do you have for others who are on this journey?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let's build a community of support and inspiration!