By Evangelina Morales | Senior Reporter

Seven years ago, Jose Eduardo Guzman and his family had to move from Mexico to the United States because someone was threatening them.

“We were not able to go out, not even go to the school because some people would follow us wherever we went,” Guzman, a 23-year-old senior, said.

However, Guzman faces another uncertainty here in the U.S. His career outlook is in jeopardy because of his legal documentation status.

“I know my reality, and I have to accept it,” he said.

Guzman, a first-generation college student, is aiming to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in teaching English as a second language this May.

Guzman has had to face many difficulties such as his brother’s deportation, the death of his grandmother who raised him, the different culture, and the language. After his brother’s deportation, his parents had to go back to Mexico, and they left him in charge of the house while he tried to balance school, homework, work and family problems.

“They know my story but they do not know what is behind me,” Guzman said.

After many years of going to school to get a degree, after gaining experience in his field, after being involved with the community, and after all the sacrifices he has been making at the end on the day, Guzman might not be able to pursue a career in teaching due to his immigration status.

Despite the challenges that Guzman had to face, he is very positive about it.

“This is not my problem,” Guzman said. “This is my reality that I have to face, and I have had a failure but that does not limit me or define me who I am.”

Friends of Guzman speak highly of him and his determination to move forward.

“Humble, honest, kind, loyal, and filled with compassion towards others is how I would describe Jose,” Adrianna Yanez said of Guzman. “I have watched him work so hard to get where he is now, I could not be more proud of him.”