Elizabeth Camarillo Gutierrez’s journey to ‘My Side of the River’

Elizabeth Camarillo Gutierrez was separated from her undocumented parents when she was just 15 years old. Living in Tucson, Gutierrez was suddenly alone as her parents were forced to return to Mexico because of immigration policies. In her memoir, “My Side of the River,” Gutierrez shares a remarkable and emotional journey shaped by resilience, ambition and a relentless pursuit of the American dream.

When her undocumented parents were forced to return to Mexico, Gutierrez made the bold decision to stay in Tucson, Arizona, alone. Faced with the challenges of finding shelter and continuing her education, she defied the odds to graduate high school as the valedictorian, attended an Ivy League university, worked on Wall Street and became the legal guardian of her younger brother, all before turning 25.

Gutierrez’s decision to stay was fueled by determination and anger at a system that left her family without a legal path to citizenship. Reflecting on those emotions, she acknowledges the sheer audacity of her choice and how her parents’ belief in her potential, seeing her as a prodigy from a young age, fueled her ambition.

Through sheer persistence, Gutierrez gave a TED Talk that resonated globally, ultimately leading to the creation of her memoir. In “My Side of the River,” Gutierrez not only recounts her life-changing experiences but also explores the complexities of the immigration system, the importance of family and her evolving understanding of what it takes to achieve success in America.

Her story is a testament to the power of ambition, the strength to overcome systemic challenges and the belief that with persistence, one can carve out opportunities even in the face of adversity. Gutierrez’s journey continues to inspire readers to dream big, stay determined and never lose sight of their goals.