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Doors close for undocumented immigrant

Nov. 25, 2005 12:00 AM

Question: I have a friend who migrated from Mexico with his mother when he was 6 months old. After high school, he attended community college for about a year and a half but had to quit because of the expense. He is now 21 and going to school again. Unfortunately, after all of his hard work he won't be able to practice in his field. He is an undocumented immigrant who only wants to become a professional, but the law won't allow him. Can anything be done to help?



Danny: Your friend had no say in this situation, but he's realizing the hard way that his mother's decision to enter the United States illegally came with a price. It is not the law closing doors on him, it's his mother's disregard and breaking of the law that has stopped his progress cold. There are a few things he can do, but they will involve time, money and, most likely, will require a return to his native country. advertisement




Lily: A wise man once said that when one door closes, another will surely open. Your friend must not give up on becoming a citizen if he wants to reap the rewards this country has to offer. Contact an immigration lawyer, who can assist him in filling out the correct documents. Check out the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Web site, USCIS.gov. Remind your friend that many have overcome the same hurdles to reach their goals. El también podra. ¡Suerte!

Catherine: The more I learn about the dire situations of other countries, the more I understand why people risk it all - their lives and their children's lives - in desperate attempts to create a better life here. That being said, the end does not justify the means. Your friend has reaped the benefits of being raised in our country, but his current roadblock was inevitable. None of us are experts about immigration law, so do consult an immigration attorney for further guidance. Any race worth running is worth running right.