On May 26, 2025, my family was forced to flee the United States for our safety and start anew in Denmark. Unfortunately, we couldn’t afford to relocate all four of us legally. I remained in the U.S. as the sole breadwinner to support my family through the transition. At the same time, I was determined to complete my Master of Arts in Digital Marketing Communication, which I could pursue tuition-free through my role as a Senior Undergraduate Admission Counselor at Regis College.
Balancing a full-time job, graduate studies, and the emotional weight of separation wasn’t easy. But instead of giving in to despair, I chose to take action.
One month before my family’s relocation, I joined a mentorship program and launched a faceless digital marketing business, DigitaLilla, on Instagram. Just 23 days later, I made my first sale. In my second month—while living in a dorm room on campus—I generated nearly $1,000 in revenue within 48 hours. By the second week of July, I had already made more from my business than I would in an entire month at my 9–5. In just 2.5 months, I earned $4,300 in profit—enough to confidently cover my family’s entire rent in Denmark.
What began as a side hustle quickly became a vital support system, helping my immigrant family rebuild from zero with greater stability and hope. Even amidst the demands of grad school, full-time work, and personal responsibilities, I’m committed to growing this business and helping others do the same.