The proverbial American dream is often spoken about, but it remains just a dream for many immigrants. However, this dream became a reality for a Kenyan immigrant owing to his zeal, patience and passion.
George Mbugua moved to the United States in search of greener pastures. A few years later, Mbugua is making a fortune as a Respiratory Therapist Director in Texas, USA.
Born and bred in Kiambu County, Mbugua moved to Seattle, US, where most of his family had relocated. However, he cleaned toilets first to make ends meet before moving to Kansas.
"I knew from the get-go, I want to have a good life, good education and impact back home where my children are," he told Mkenya Marekani TV.
The University of Kansas, however, declined Mbugua's request to study nursing as he lacked the requisite Green Card documents.
"So I talked to the director and informed him that I had done anatomy and physiology, Mathematics and Statistics. I have all my pre-requisite.
"He allowed me to pursue a course in Respiratory Therapy as they had a program slated to begin a few months later. I submitted my documents, and here I am, 15 years later. It was the best decision in my life," he stated.
In his second year at the University of Kansas, Mbugua had secured two jobs where he worked three days each.
He also graduated with a Masters during the pandemic and started pursuing his PhD at the University of Cumberlands, Kentucky, months later.
Aside from his main role, Mbugua also moderates events where he interacts with influential people.
"I have interviewed politicians and presidents of various organisations. My job is to showcase how Kenyans in Diaspora are making an impact," he noted.
A respiratory therapy director's average salary ranges from Ksh14 million upwards.
