As part of Undocu-Ally Week, we’ve asked undocumented students to share their stories and explain what it means to have support from the Marquette community. Today we’re sharing the story of Dayane Garcia-Avila, a senior majoring in biomedical engineering and biocomputing.
For more information on how you can get involved in Undocu-Ally Week programming, visit the diversity homepage.
Throughout my childhood, my family ingrained in me that my status had to remain a secret, a piece of myself I could never share with anyone. As I grew older and began to undergo new experiences, I quickly realized how many milestones I couldn’t share with my peers. Among other things, I witnessed my friends getting their first jobs, driver’s licenses, and the right to vote, which was frustrating to say the least. It felt as if I was kept in a shoe box, suffocated and unsure about what my future would hold.
However, my view on my status changed when I arrived at Marquette’s campus. I was surrounded by my friends and mentors who understood my situation and became a beacon of light for me. They empowered me to not be ashamed of who I am or my background. They became my support system on campus and since then have been a second family to me and I will be forever grateful.
I am constantly reminded that I, along with my fellow undocumented peers, are resilient, worthy and hardworking. We continue to fight and strive for excellence because it was our parents who fought tirelessly to give us the life they never had.
Marquette University is committed to supporting undocumented students through various resources and initiatives aimed at fostering inclusion and belonging. Marquette Dreamers, including DACA recipients and those without work authorization, have access to various services. For more information, visit the Undocumented Student Resources page, get involved in the Marquette DREAMers student organization (@marquettedreamers on Instagram), or contact Dr. Jacki Black, chair of the Dreamers Support Committee.
