First Gen Law School Dream

Hello, my name is Ximena and I am starting law school this fall at the City University of New York. I received a scholarship, but it is not enough to cover tuition and books.

In 2020, I graduated Columbia University and became my family's first college grad. I am hoping to become my family's first lawyer.

I am an immigrant from Colombia who is living in the country entirely alone. I am currently a DACA recipient, which means I cannot apply to federal student loans, as well as most private loans. Without scholarships and fundraisers, I cannot attend law school.

My dedication to law school comes from my dedication to immigrant communities. Throughout my time at Columbia I organized across NYC and the country, focusing on providing immigrant students with college access. I hope to continue my advocacy by becoming a lawyer.

Once classes start, I will be the only undocumented trans woman attending law school in the entire United States. I am committed to earning my law degree and tearing down barriers that prevent people from entering the legal field.