The philosophy behind the American dream preaches that with hard work anyone can realize their dreams. But some young people are finding that even if they study, get good grades and awards – the American Dream isn’t for them. That’s what happened to 18-year-old Sam from Elkhart, Indiana. Sam and his family came from Mexico on visas. That was 14 years ago. Today, he is a young man in limbo as he graduates from high school  and tries to make his way to college. For WBEZ, Long Haul Productions has his story.

This is Part One of American Dreamer, was produced by Dan Collison and Elizabeth Meister for Long Haul Productions. The project advisor is Katie Davis. It will re-air this Sunday at 5 p.m. on Latino USA.

Email Sam to learn more about his story, and his struggle to finance his college education.

Music Button: Russian Circles, “Melee”, from the CD Geneva, (Suicide Squeeze records)