Many individuals from various countries are always in search of a better life. Regardless of the challenges they may face, they are determined to pursue a brighter future. For many, the answer lies in coming to America, where opportunities in politics, society, and the economy abound.

One primary motivation for immigration to the United States is the prospect of improved economic conditions. This includes better working conditions, higher wages, and an enhanced quality of life. The United States, in turn, reaps benefits from these individuals. According to The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, they “work at high rates and make up more than a third of the workforce in some industries.” Their geographic mobility aids local economies in addressing worker shortages, contributing to the overall stability of the economy.

Dosomehing.org reports that there are nearly 12 million undocumented citizens in the United States. The process of applying for citizenship comes with a cost of over $600 per person. The citizenship test is divided into four parts: speaking English, reading English, writing English, and American Civics.

While some people enter the country seeking adventure, like Armando Sotelo, who recalls being enticed by friends at the age of 17.

“I was 17 years old when my friends told me they wanted to come to the U.S just for fun. I thought it was going to be a good adventure. I was young and didn’t think about consequences back then. We traveled so much in a tiny bus with not even a bathroom for like 3 days just to get to the place where the train stays. We get there, and then we just jumped in. We thought we were going to make it, but an official took my friends, and I was so scared of entering a new world alone, so I let myself get arrested too,” reflects Armando.

Others like Antonia Almanza emphasize the daunting nature of the experience.

“It’s so hard to come to a place where everything is different and new. You have your whole life made already, but just in a blink, everything absolutely changes. I am proud of all immigrants like me who left everything just for a better life for us and our families. It is hard, but at the end, everything is worth it,” states Antonia.