Oge Okereke

Richmond, TX

In 1994, I was involved in a traumatic fire incident that permamently scarred me in Nigeria. Seeking treatment for my burns, I came to America in 1999 on a medical visa, and little to my knowledge I overstayed my visa, having no clue what that meant, I was a child. I did not realize that I was undocumented till it was time to apply for College, I was denied admission to several school due to being undocumented. This was when the journey began, Saving up for college and earning an education was very pertinent to me. I saw and still see America as the land with greeener pastures. I was fortunate and was able to start my education at a junior college. The school counselors saw the zeal I had in me and helped me find a House Bill that enabled me further my education earning a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. I continued and went further onto obtaining a Masters degree in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner, and currently pursing Post Masters degree in Psychiatry.

Living in Houston, Texas, working, earning a living and paying taxes is all part of defining America to me. DACA has given me that opportunity to work as a Health care worker, saving American lives on daily basis meanwhile contributing physically, financially and emotionally to the American society.