My dad immigrated to the United States in 1997 when he was only 20 years old. He only completed elementary school up to 3rd grade. My mom was born here in the United States but moved back and forth to Mexico when she was younger. In 2021 for my graduation cap, I wanted a design that represented my family and what they went through in order for me to have the privilege of graduating high school and continuing my education. I am a first generation college student and am so grateful to have my family's support in accomplishing my dreams and educational goals. The phrase I chose to include was "Ellos dejaron sus suenos para yo poder seguir los mios." This translates to "They left their dreams, so I could follow mine." I think this was the perfect quote and really felt a connection to it when I first heard it. My parents have worked so hard to give my siblings and I a better life than they had. They sacrificed so much, for my siblings and I to be able to follow our dreams. My dad hasn't seen his family in over 20 years and my mom has worked every minute of every day to make sure we had food on the table. As I sit here writing this, I reflect on everything that has helped me get to where I am. I will be graduating in 2025 and will be showing others like me, that anything is possible when you work hard towards it. 

– Yajaira Hernandez

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant