I’m too scared to take action on my own.

Hi everyone. I recently turned 17 and I’ve been thinking a lot about my situation. I came to the U.S. legally when I was 8 (in 2017), and I’ve lived in Georgia ever since.

Right before I turned 16, my mom left me and my dad and moved to California. Since then, she hasn’t helped us at all—no support emotionally or financially. My dad is doing his best to take care of me, but I’ve gone through a lot of neglect over the years, especially during my early teens. I’ve been trying to stay focused on school and my future.

I want to become a dentist, stable life here. I recently heard about Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), and it sounds like I might qualify—but I’m scared and confused. I also read that USCIS changed some rules in June 2025, and now people don’t automatically get deferred action or work permits even if they qualify.

I’m not sure if I should try to start this process now, or wait and see if things get better politically. I also don’t know anyone else who’s been through this, and I’d love to hear from people who understand or have done SIJS themselves.

Thanks so much for reading. Any advice or personal stories would mean a lot 💙