Why I'm a summer intern with American Gateways

by Amy Hathaway

I have just finished my third year at the University of Texas, and was searching for an internship for the summer where I could practice my Spanish because I am interested in becoming a court interpreter after I graduate. I stumbled upon American Gateways and as I researched more into the organization I fell in love with it because of its focus helping immigrants in need.

My compassion for the immigrant community began with a couple trips to Ciudad Juárez in 2005 and 2006. I saw people living in extreme poverty, yearning for a better life, and willing and determined to work hard to achieve their dreams. Since then I have always had a soft spot in my heart for Juárez and its people.

As I continued studying Spanish (and later Portuguese) over the years, I learned much about not only the language but also the culture and societal conditions in much of Latin America. I have heard heart-wrenching stories of violence, oppression, and poverty. I have made friends of an international community who have shared their immigration stories with me. My roommate is a second generation American whose parents came to the United States fleeing civil war in their country.

All of these experiences and relationships have given me a desire to help people who no one else will. American Gateways does exactly that. They help people with no other options, and I am excited and proud to be a part of that. I am eager to not only help the immigrant community, but to educate the Austin and Central Texas community about immigration issues and immigrants.