My name is Julie and I am turning 20 soon. I was born in Korea and I moved to California with my family when I was 8 years old on a tourist visa.

California is my home. Even though I was not born here, I was raised here and have made friends that will last a lifetime here. I am currently attending a public university in California pursuing a degree in International Studies with no financial aid because of my status.
Thankfully, I am getting in-state tuition because I graduated elementary, middle, and high schools in California, but it is still extremely hard to make ends meet since I can’t get a job.

Recently I was hired by the university for a job that I have been dreaming about since I was a freshman, but had to turn it down because I don’t have a social security number. I watched as my plans and hopes crashed to the ground. Because of my status, I am severely restricted in things I can do to help myself and my family. I am also afraid that I will not be able to give back to the community that has shaped me into the person that I am today.

My passion in life is to help people, and I sincerely hope that I will be able to use my knowledge, experience, and education to make a difference in this world. Please help me and thousands of others realize our dreams.