ABSTRACT
Overcoming adversity and managing to stay focused on a goal is one of Isabel’s strengths. She came to the United States at the age of four, and when she arrived, she lived in a very rough neighborhood with gangs and violence. High school was a bit more difficult for Isabel, in part because of the cruel disappointment of finding out she was undocumented. Despite her best efforts, Isabel continues to struggle to pay for school. Her high school activities helped her secure a few scholarships from organizations that she volunteered for, but she still cannot get all the funds she needs. Even though Isabel faces many obstacles in her own pursuit of higher education, her dedication to supporting her siblings education is remarkable. Although Isabel realizes that her legal status holds her back, she stays very optimistic that her time will come.
