ADIL BOUTAHLI

THE AMERICAN DREAM

In 2008, I received life-changing news.

I had been selected in the United States Diversity Visa Lottery program. This opportunity would allow me to immigrate legally to the United States and pursue a new future.

In April 2009, my first interview was approved, and I received my immigrant visa. The visa was valid for six months.

In October 2009, I arrived in the United States and landed in New Jersey.

I stayed with relatives during my first days in America. Everything was different. I had no car, no internet, no computer, and no cell phone service.

I was waiting for my Social Security card and Green Card so that I could begin working legally.

Life was difficult during those first weeks.

At one point, I applied for a landscaping job before receiving my work authorization. Shortly afterward, the apartment management contacted my relatives because my name was not listed on the lease.

I eventually moved with a friend into another apartment. It was there that I finally received my Green Card and Social Security card.

During the same week, my father called me from Morocco.

He told me that I had passed the entrance examination for the police academy.

He asked me a difficult question:

“Do you want to return to Morocco or stay in America?”

After several days of reflection, I decided to remain in the United States.

I believed that America would provide opportunities for my future.

To communicate with my family in Morocco, I often walked several miles to the library because it offered free internet access.

Eventually, I discovered a Moroccan community in southern New Jersey, where I began building friendships and connections.

I later found employment at a convenience store.

At that time, I had no vehicle and relied entirely on public transportation. Every day involved long walks, train rides, and bus transfers.

My overnight shift lasted from 9:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m.

After work, I often traveled for hours to reach my second job.

Life was difficult, especially during the winter months. Snow, rain, and cold weather made every journey harder.

However, I refused to give up.

I knew that sacrifice was necessary to build a better future.