8 Months In South America

Changed My Life

A fierce and long lightning storm breaks the night sky as I gaze out the window of an old bus, winding through the treacherous mountains of Colombia. I’ll later learn that this storm killed 45 people in the surrounding area, but I am having one of the most spiritual experiences of my life.

As the bus navigates the narrow, winding cliff-side roads, 

I contemplate my past, my purpose, and the path that lies ahead.

This 12-hour ride from Cartagena to Medellín is not just awe-inspiring
and terrifying; it is part of a larger 8 month journey of self-discovery.

I am on a quest to
find my true calling in life…

Growing up in Orem, Utah, I was raised by a father who was like a small-town James Bond, fully immersed in his work as a private investigator. He tackled cases ranging from exposing a sex-trafficking cult to investigating cheating spouses. My mother, on the other hand, was the backbone of our family—our secretary, laundress, and caretaker.

In the 6th grade I discovered my passion for law. 
I played the role of a prosecutor in a mock trial against the tobacco industry and emerged victorious (Of course).

The experience ignited a spark in me,
a desire to be a lawyer.

In Elementary school, my parents enrolled me in a Spanish immersion program. After that, teachers would have me translate for kids who had just arrived from Latin America. They’d say, “Go sit by Mark. He’ll help you.” I enjoyed helping.

Fast forward to adulthood and 2008, when I find myself facing the harsh realities of the financial crisis. Job opportunities for lawyers are scarce.

Feeling lost and lacking purpose, I made a life-changing decision: to travel to South America for
8 months.

With a one-way ticket to Cartagena, Colombia,

I embark on a journey of self-discovery,

immersing myself in new cultures, and embracing
the challenges that come with it.

From the vibrant streets of Cartagena to the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, I allow myself to truly live and experience life to the fullest. Along the way, I come to feel we all belong to this earth and we should all be able to live where we wish.

I run out of money deep in South America, but by then I know my true calling—to return to Utah and

start my own law firm, dedicated to
helping those in need.

Upon my return, I begin to build my practice, starting with a simple act of kindness. My friend Alberto comes to me. “Mark, can you help my grandfather to get his citizenship?” I do so, and his grandfather gets his U.S. citizenship. Word spreads, and soon, more immigrants seek my assistance. The joy and gratitude on people’s faces when they finally achieve their dreams fuel my passion for this work.

Today, with 15 years of immigration work under my belt, my law firm stands as a testament to the power of passion.

We specialize in helping immigrants with their legal issues, providing them with the support and guidance they need to build a better future for themselves and their families. From helping families reunite through marriage-based green cards to assisting parents of U.S. citizens in obtaining residency, we are dedicated to making the American dream a reality for those who seek it.

Looking back on my journey, I realize that every
experience, every challenge, and every decision
has led me to where I am today.

The mock trial in 6th grade, the friendships formed because of Spanish immersion, and the 8-month soul-searching adventure in South America including the lightning storm—all of these life-experiences have shaped me into the lawyer and the person I am.

As I continue to fight for the rights of immigrants,
 I am reminded of the power of compassion and the importance of following one’s passion.

ABOUT AOS ONLY

For the past 15 years, AOS Only has been dedicated to providing elite legal representation along with excellent customer service for marriage & family-based Green Card cases at an unbeatable value.

Founded by Immigration Attorney Mark Naugle, our team has been on a mission to provide quick, straightforward help to people like you and your family as you navigate our tough immigration system.

For so many, dealing with the immigration process means expensive lawyers, seemingly endless waits, and worrying whether your application will be denied.

But there is an easier way. AOS Only specializes in providing Adjustment of Status to spouses, parents, and children under the age of 21.

We are 100% focused on delivering elite customer service without the high-end price tag so you and your loved one can be united.