My name is Balbina, I came to the US in 2020. When I came to the US, I had no knowledge of any adult classes. I’m a mother of five who immigrated to the U.S. a few years ago with the goal to have a better life. The journey to achieve my educational goals has been anything but easy.
I was pursuing my GED when my son fell ill, he had asthma and bad episodes that forced me to put my studies on hold to care for him. Balancing the demands of being a mother, working to support my family, and trying to get an education has been a constant struggle, and it has not been easy.
Despite these challenges, I eventually earned my GED. I dream of becoming a teacher, or something within the educational field. However, the cost of college tuition is a significant barrier, making it difficult to take the next step toward my goal of studying and getting a degree.
The impact of these financial struggles has been felt by my entire family, particularly my oldest son, who does not want to pursue higher education after witnessing our financial hardships. He worries that going to college will only add to our financial burden. That’s why free college would be life-changing for us. It would allow me to continue my education and become a teacher, something I’ve always dreamed of, without adding to our financial stress. More importantly, it would show my children that education is possible for families like ours, and that they shouldn’t have to choose between their dreams and financial security.
A program where undocumented students can work would be helpful and equitable. Most immigrants work difficult jobs that are hard on our health, leaving us little time to be able to study and get an education. It would be good for undocumented students to get jobs in their field of study so they can get experience.
Balbina Hernandez, Ellensburg