I Came to America at 16. Here's How I Graduated Debt Free.

I came to America by myself at 16, worked full-time while attending college full-time, and graduated without student debt. I didn't have everything figured out financially. But looking back, there were a few things I did right that helped me get through college without taking on debt. In this video, I share how I kept my housing costs low, paid my credit cards in full, drove an old car for as long as I could, and stayed focused on my goals, even when it meant sacrificing much of my social life. I was fortunate to have scholarships, financial aid, and support from family and friends. At the time, I didn't realize how much these decisions would mean to me later. Today, I'm grateful for the choices I made and the help I received along the way. This isn't about having everything figured out. It's about sharing the decisions that worked for me and that I would make again. What is one financial decision you're grateful you made? Share it in the comments! Subscribe to PhoMeetsCeviche for more conversations about personal finance, building wealth, and our journey toward financial independence.

Added 20 Oct 2026