Editor’s note: Last week, the Maryland State Senate approved the “Maryland DREAM Act,” a bill that will allow all qualifying Maryland high school graduates to pay an in-state college tuition rate regardless of immigration status. The legislation is now moving on to the Maryland House of Delegates. This week, we’re featuring three students who are working with CASA of Maryland to make their higher education dreams a reality.
As a U.S. private foundation, OSI does not attempt to influence legislation (commonly referred to as lobbying) and does not state a position on any legislation. The blog posting that follows describes the experiences of the student and does not necessarily reflect the views of OSI.
My name is Dulce and I am a youth committee member at Casa De Maryland. I think that the experience of testifying for “The Maryland Dream Act” was very honoring. I feel like a part of something bigger and important for many people. I think my best experience was being there for the vote in the senate and witnessing the bill pass.
I have made so many new friends that make this even more fun and special than it already is. We share more than just a common interest in modern day “teen-stuff,” we share a dream and a goal and that makes us have a closer relationship even though we all have different inspirations. Mine are my parents because they work hard for me, and the least I can do is amplify that and work hard as well. The fact that this bill passed gives me a sense of accomplishment and hope because it proves that hard work pays off. I feel proud and excited to be in such an adept group of people like my coordinators who inspire me to work harder for these bills. I am lucky to have such support and I promise to use it as well as I can.