My name is Martha Teresa Sierra. I was born in Mexico but raised here since I was two years old. My parents wanted a better life for me. They tried to give me the life they wished they had. I am the only child who has graduated high school and is attending college. I want to repay my parents for the help and support they are giving me. I knew I was different starting at an early age. I was the only child in my family who was undocumented. All my cousins either had a visa or were U.S. citizens. It was a struggle growing up as an immigrant. There were few resources for me. College was not a possibility in my future. I had a few options to try to get legalized. Having to get married at such a young age was something I did not want. I was a victim of sexual harassment and was hoping I could get a U-visa. Unfortunately, I did not have enough proof, and it would tear my father's family apart. I had given up on college. I saw no point in trying so hard when I knew I would not have the chance to be someone in life. Thankfully, I have had amazing teachers in my life. They gave me the hope and determination to continue with my dream. I want to help my community. I want to change the stereotypical ways of thinking in a Hispanic/Latino household concerning sexual harassment and mental health. I want my parents to see me do something with my life. I want to give my parents a better life just as they did for me. I am majoring in Social Work. I am hoping to get my bachelor's in social work (BSW). I want to continue my education and receive my master's in social work (MSW). Lastly, I want to be a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Going to college to become a social worker is difficult. I am close to having to do field placement and I do not have a lot of options to choose from due to my status. I will take whatever I can do, however. I try to be involved with my Hispanic/Latino community here at Northwestern State University in Louisiana. As well as helping with my community in my hometown. I translate for many family members and friends. I also try to help with looking for resources and teaching them their rights, especially in these times. I do not receive any financial aid from the government. This is hard on my parents and myself. I cannot get a job due to my status to help them with the bills. My dad is the only one who works in our household. It is difficult for him to pay for my college and the bills they have. I want to be able to help them. I want to take some weight off their backs. So, my definition of the American dream is to fight for what you want. It is to help others just like how our ancestors helped their family. To me, it is to strive for more all while never losing your culture. The American dream is to continue to fight for our people and the future generation. I will continue to fight for my American dream.