Against All Odds: My Journey from Refugee to PhD

"In 1980, after escaping from a bloody civil war, Rigo Chinchilla, a young man from El Salvador, was penniless, alone, and far from home. His bed was an old lumpy mattress, and a single light bulb hang from the ceiling illuminated his gloomy room. Limited by his career and work options because of his refugee status, all he had was a dream – to make a better life for himself. Armed with wits, guts, and a strong belief in God, he set his eyes on his objectives of being educated and successful. The result is a story that's compelling, inspiring, and rich with culture, politics, and faith." “The land buckles, bullets fly, and lives scatter. Out of this harrowing backdrop worthy of a film script, is borne faith, courage and hope. A young man's dream transforms before your eyes into blessed reality with a promising future. See how miracles, determination and love help to propel a commoner of little means to beat the odds and find spiritual, academic and physical reward. An inspiring story of accomplishment." ~ Rex Stocklin, disability rights activist “It’s impossible to read this book only one time. It takes at least two readings to be able to realize what an incredible story it is. It was so beautiful for me to be able to watch how God was able to use such a determined, angry boy who, despite his impossible situation, never gave up but always pushed for what he wanted. This book will be an inspiration to any young person who has a dream.” ~ Pat Stooksbury, Retired Baptist Missioner “The take away from Dr. Chinchilla’s book is that it’s important to believe in yourself, and at the same time, believe in something bigger than yourself. That he has selflessly dedicated himself to funding programs to help poor refugee children does not come as a surprise to me. His is a wonderful story.” ~ Ebby, Meatless Fridays