New York City continues to send asylum seekers to Hudson Valley counties, sparking debates over migrants and the state of the U.S. immigration system.

Throughout the process, those who’ve been granted asylum are reflecting on their own lives living the American dream, as others continue to try and seek it.

In light of recent headlines, Maria May finds herself going down memory lane.

May has called the United States home since 1973. Fifty years ago, she came to the U.S. as an asylum seeker from Cuba. She was only 14.

“My dad gave me when I was coming here on my own, because, so my family went from Cuba to Spain. And they stayed there for almost three years, or over three years, I think. And this is the International Rescue Committee. This is the label that I had to wear on the plane when I came here by myself,” said May.

May says it was just she and another child on the plane. Both felt scared. They were trying to start a new life in a new country.

“This is what my father gave me just because I didn't speak any English. And just in case that I actually could find my godmother who was picking me up,” said May.

May says there is a big difference these days compared to when she came to the U.S. in the '70s.

“There wasn't all the negative stuff that is going on now. I never felt, I always felt wanted. I always felt part, you know, that the folks here wanted me, that I was welcome here. I think my parents felt the same way,” said May.

May said her parents wanted to find work and make something of themselves.

“My father had been a bookkeeper. He worked cleaning floors at night so he could learn English and get a better job. He was good with numbers and math. So eventually, he worked at a pharmaceutical company, mixing formulas for medicines. And eventually, he opened his own business, a catering business for Spanish foods. And my mom, the same, she was a teacher,” said May.

May was granted asylum in California. She settled down in the Hudson Valley and created a life, receiving a doctorate from Fordham University. She became a town council member in Tuxedo and taught elementary school students for more than 30 years.

“I tell my children who are learning English now that I was just like you. You know, here I am now. I’m teaching other kids how to read the English,” said May. For others seeking a new life, she offered advice.

“My hope for them is that they will believe that they can do it and you know not give up,” said May.

May is running for reelection for the council seat in the town of Tuxedo.