Meet Mariana

Mariana was a fully licensed doctor in her home country. She practiced in the air force and then in the medical and administrative field for 15 years before coming to the United States. After arriving here, through no fault of her own, Mariana found herself in an abusive situation. She came to RILA for legal representation. 

Her physician’s credentials to practice medicine didn’t transfer to the United States and she lacked permission to work here regardless. So Mariana took the only jobs available to her — cleaning houses, caring for children, and teaching Spanish to make ends meet while she waited for permission to work. RILA helped Mariana file for permission to stay in the United States and to obtain her work permit, which allowed her to transition to working at healthcare facilities again and starting over. “I was back in my field–the medical profession–which felt great!” Having her documents also allowed Mariana to enroll in college and get her Master’s Degree in Health Information Management.

She now works in administration in a healthcare practice within walking distance of her house. And she’s making plans to get a position in her degree area now that she has received her Green Card.

“The work permit allowed me to get better jobs that provided health insurance, study, financial stability and opportunities to advance in my career.”

About working in the United States and starting life over, Mariana says, “I have been able to provide for my daughter. The better my job is, the easier financially I can support her so she can achieve her dreams. She wants to be a medical examiner.”

Recently, Mariana was able to buy a condominium in the area. “It’s not big, but it’s ours. The work permit was important for this process. It wouldn’t have been possible without papers.” 

Mariana is a survivor of trauma, but that is not her primary identity. Mariana identifies herself as a “life-long learner, always wanting to learn new things.” She is overflowing with resilience and tenacity. And she is working hard every day as a single mother to love and provide for her daughter, to grow as a medical professional, and to give back to the community that has supported her.

Mel Chang