Humberto

My name is Humberto, and I come from the beautiful city of Queretaro, Mexico. I was born into a large, humble family where love and sacrifice were the pillars of our everyday life. As the oldest of six siblings, I quickly learned that life would not always be easy. School was never simple for me, and at a young age, I chose to work alongside my father in the cornfields to help support our family. I knew that by working hard, I could make a difference for my loved ones.

In 1999, at 17 years old, I bravely decided to leave everything behind and venture to Wisconsin. I was searching for a better life—for me and my family. I faced an uncertain future, alone, without family or close friends in this new land. But I was determined. Some kind people helped me find work, and I took every opportunity I could, from painting and cleaning to construction and fast food. The physical work was tough, but the most demanding challenges came from being far away from the people I loved and facing a new language, climate, and culture.

In my youth, I made poor choices, trusting the wrong people and allowing myself to be led astray. Those mistakes hurt me deeply, but they also taught me powerful lessons. I realized I had to pause, reflect, and rebuild my life. So, I returned to Mexico for a while, hoping to find clarity and peace. However, my family's financial struggles brought me back to the United States, knowing my journey wasn’t over.

Today, I stand stronger and wiser, having learned from my mistakes. I have found solace in my faith, and I’ve been blessed to meet incredible people who have guided me with their kindness and support. Most of all, my family—my siblings and their dreams of a better future—has always been my most significant source of inspiration. I have always put them first, but now, I focus on myself, too. I focus on my growth, studies, and dreams and am determined to be a better person and professional.

Looking ahead, my goals are clear: to travel to new places, improve my English, buy a house, start my own family, and return to my homeland.

Though my journey has not been easy or perfect, I’ve realized that mistakes are a part of life’s growth. It’s okay to stumble as long as we rise again, stronger and wiser. The most important thing is never to stop believing in ourselves; to keep striving to be better and to trust that with hard work and faith, we can achieve anything we set our hearts and minds to.