Aliento Features: Jael Camacho
Introduce yourself!
Hey everyone, my name is Jael Camacho, I am 17 years old, and I am a graduating senior at Bioscience High School. I was born in Toluca, Mexico State, Mexico and immigrated to Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of one.
How did you hear about the Aliento Fellowship, and why did you choose Aliento?
I first heard about Aliento when I received an email from STEP: Student Expedition Program. STEP promotes various workshops during the summer regarding struggles that undocumented students have to go through. I immediately did a quick google search about Aliento and when I saw what their mission was and what they’ve done I knew I had to get involved. Aliento is more than a group of students, peers and allies but a family fighting for one common cause.
“I did not have the opportunity or resources to continue my education in this state but I now know future generations will because of what we’ve accomplished.”
I chose Aliento because I want every undocumented student behind me to not have to feel insecure and uncertain about their future but rather feel hopeful and proud of what they will accomplish. I did not have the opportunity or resources to continue my education in this state but I now know future generations will because of what we’ve accomplished.
What are some of the things you’ve learned as a fellow? Why was it important?
As a fellow, the main thing I learned over everything else is having vulnerability and being able to share my personal story with others while empowering those around me. At first, it was a struggle to share because I felt insecure and nervous about it. But I learned that when you share your story, you inspire others to do the same and with that we learn more about ourselves and each other. We build a like minded community. I’ve also had the opportunity to make better sense about how our local/national government works, and how certain decisions affect all of us. Although I did not have the opportunity to speak with many elected officials, I learned to communicate my story in a way that has become one of my many strengths.
What are some moments within the fellowship that you are most proud of?
I really enjoyed the first time being able to meet everyone in-person on Election Day because it was also the first time I had the opportunity to meet everyone from Aliento and a few of the fellows. Excitement, encouragement and hope filled the atmosphere as we worked through the afternoon and evening to encourage everyone to come out to vote. I had a great time because it was more than just an event and being able to finally be together.
Jael getting out the vote on Election Day!
After the election, Aliento transitioned back onto fighting for in-state tuition for undcumented students and that's where something happened that truly impacted me. In the midst of fighting for in-state tuition we were encouraged to create and host events that would bring awareness to this issue. I had the opportunity to host 2 events where students from Bioscience were able to join and for the last event I will forever hold it in my memory and heart. It is when I truly became vulnerable when I began sharing my personal story.
Afterwards, students began to share their own personal stories or experiences which was amazing because we were all able to find those common connections and we became more than a group of students. Finally, the amazing news that SCR 1044 passed both the Senate and the House and will now go to voters was just astounding. We did it!! Undocumented students who were once scared and afraid of what there future would look like can now look ahead and dream of the things they can now do.
Group picture after SCR1044 passed! Jael (center right in light blue) with the Aliento Team
Besides Aliento, what else were you involved with at school? What did you do?
At Bioscience High School I joined my first club, Dragon Robotics, and I’ve had the privilege and opportunity to meet and interact with some amazing students. Some of whom I look up to. We work together and help one another when getting ready and prepared for competitions. I was also a part of the Engineering CTE Program where I learned and gained experience with programs like SolidWorks and Onshape. In addition I learned how to use the plasma table, lazer table, 3D printers and basic tools. I also participated in clubs and programs like Key club, STARS, Be a Leader, STEP: Student Expedition Program and AGUILA Youth leadership institute.
Would you recommend the fellowship? Why?
I would 100% recommend the fellowship to other students. First, I have to say that the person I am now is not the same person when I first started the fellowship back in August. The first day of the fellowship I was afraid, nervous and anxious because I did not know anything but now I feel empowered, knowledgeable and a leader. I’ve learned a lot and have gone through different things that have changed and shaped the person I am now. I no longer fear that I am an undocumented student or sharing my personal story because its now my source of strength.
Jael with the Aliento Team outside of the AZ Senate
I’ve had the privilege and opportunity to meet some of the most amazing people despite everything that has happened this past year with the pandemic. We learn things that will be with us for the rest of our lives and become better people. I’ve learned that there is that leader within us all and it's only when we take a leap of faith that we will change this world for the better. Aliento is not just a network of people fighting for an issue but rather a community and family that will be there with you at every turn and step of your life.
What’s next for you?
You are looking at a Bioscience High School Graduate!!! Go class of 2021!!! I am also on my way to be a student at Washington University in St. Louis. I was given the opportunity to have been offered an amazing financial aid package plus a few scholarships that when added up cover the cost of tuition and living expenses. I am not 100% what I would like to major in but I am leaning towards anything within the Engineering field or perhaps the medical field.
We are so proud of Jael and wish him well at Washington University! Jael is one of the 2,000 undocumented students that graduate from our high schools in Arizona each year. With tuition rates being high for undocumented / DACA students, students like Jael find better opportunities and financial options out of state. Jael was one of the leading forces behind passing SCR1044 (Instate Tuition for Dreamers) along with the rest of the Aliento Fellows, now he opens the doors for future students that are in his shoes.
We provide leadership development, organizing trainings, and provide the tools for our fellows to become leaders in their communities. In order to sponsor a fellow, it takes $5,000. Consider donating to Aliento so we can fund our next cohort of young leaders in Arizona! Will you donate $10, $50, $100 now?