Cuban ex-lecturer remembers his first year in the U.S. and shares his inspiring story.

The former Cuban broadcaster Alejandro Quintana, who emigrated to the United States in 2022, responded emphatically to a comment on TikTok where a follower asked him what he had achieved during his first year in the country.

Quintana, known for his work in Cuban television and radio, used the platform to share an inspiring reflection on his immigration experience and the sacrifices that have allowed him to thrive in the land of opportunities and carve his own path to well-being and personal fulfillment.

In his response, Alejandro explained how he had to set aside his ego and start from scratch, without relying on his professional background in Cuba. "The first thing I did was forget about my personal ego and understand that my life was beginning from zero," he explained.

Throughout his first year, he worked at a restaurant during long shifts of 12 to 14 hours a day, and on Sundays he took the opportunity to deliver packages through Amazon Flex. "This is how thousands of immigrants with good judgment and a desire to get ahead have done," he added.

During that time, he not only managed to save $8,000, but he also bought his first car, a modest transportation vehicle, which allowed him to reduce transportation costs and take on more work responsibilities. Additionally, he enrolled in Miami Dade College, where he completed six levels of English, which opened the door to better professional opportunities. His effort led him to improve his standard of living and support his family, always staying focused on his personal growth.

The video has generated a wave of positive reactions, with followers congratulating him for his dedication and determination. “You are an example of overcoming obstacles for many people,” commented one user; “Young man, I loved that very decent and correct explanation,” added another. “Exactly, my friend” was another supportive reply, while someone else commented, “You are a very determined young man, congratulations.”

Many also highlighted the sacrifice involved in emigrating and the merit of achieving such good results. "Congratulations, you are a Hispanic pride"; "You are worthy of admiration, keep it up" are some of the compliments received. One comment reflected on the resentment of some towards his success: "People keep talking nonsense because they can't stand that what took them years to accomplish, you did in a year."

This is not the first testimony that Alejandro Quintana shares about his life in the United States. Since his arrival in Miami in 2022, he has documented the challenges and achievements he has faced on his social media, including moments like his recent car change after two years of using his first vehicle. Quintana has shown that with financial planning and discipline, he has been able to elevate and improve his quality of life, serving as an inspiration for thousands of Cubans who also seek to thrive in the United States.

His message ended with a wish for his followers to also be encouraged to take control of their lives: "The videos I make are not just talk, the videos I make are the result of my life, of my experience."