This week’s guest is immigration attorney Hector Quiroga. Hector came to the US from Colombia to study English and eventually stayed. He initially was interested in NASA and studied in Texas, but then he moved to Washington and became an attorney. Hector comes from a family of attorneys from back in Colombia so it seems like that was his destiny, but immigration law wasn’t even his first choice.
Hector is also the author of Prove Them Wrong: One Immigrant’s 10-Year Journey from Bankrupt to Millionaire – where he shares his early struggles of becoming a lawyer, going bankrupt, meeting his wife, and overcoming his trauma of sexual abuse.
Hector’s Journey Coming To The US
Hector Quiroga’s story is one of perseverance. His path, however, was far from easy. At one point, Hector faced bankruptcy, a financial collapse that would have crushed the dreams of many. But like the title of his book says, “Prove Them Wrong,” he was determined to prove just that. With his determination and hard work, he enrolled in law school. Embarking on a career to help others facing legal struggles.
Law school can be a particularly challenging experience for immigrants, requiring them to overcome financial, social, and emotional barriers. In the episode, Hector highlights the language barrier non-native English speakers face when taking standardized tests like the LSAT.
However, Hector’s success is a testament to the strength of many immigrants. His story reminds us that the American Dream is still attainable, even if the road is long and hard.
Understanding the U Visa Process
In this episode, Hector also shares information about the U Visa. The visa was created in 2000 as part of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act. It provides legal status to undocumented immigrants who have been victims of certain crimes and are willing to assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting those crimes. Commonly, these crimes include sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking.
Hector emphasizes the importance of reporting these crimes rather than allowing them to go unreported because of the fear of being deported. The visa empowers immigrants to seek help without the fear of deportation.
Conclusion of Hector’s Journey
If you or someone you know needs more information about the U-Visa process, it’s best to contact a trusted immigration attorney.
Hector’s work with the U visa process shows how the legal system can provide hope and protection for those most in need. For immigrants facing the hardships of adjusting to life in the U.S., stories like Hector’s offer both inspiration and practical information to guide them on their journeys toward the American Dream, another reason.
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