Sergio Varela, a 20-year-old from Atizapán de Zaragoza, State of Mexico, went viral on TikTok for showing that he lives in a cistern in Mexico City (CDMX) to continue his studies in Biomedical Engineering.
The student shared that he lives in very limited conditions: he pays 5,500 pesos a month for a space that doesn’t have its own bathroom or direct connection to a water supply.
However, he has adapted the space himself with basic furniture such as a bed, desk, armchair, and a small kitchenette. He even explained that because the access ladder is removable, he was able to bring his belongings inside without any problem.
However, to use the bathroom or take a shower, he must leave the space and go up to the first floor of the building, where the common areas are. Although he admitted that it’s not ideal, he assured that the experience has allowed him to learn to take care of himself, become independent, and become more resilient.
The young man also explained that his decision to rent the cistern arose from the lack of affordable options in Mexico City and his intention not to share an apartment. However, he admitted that he hopes not to stay there for long.
“I didn’t want to live with roommates or in a three-by-two room. There were apartments available, but they were still occupied by other tenants. So I decided on the cistern.”
Sergio’s story has sparked a wave of comments on social media, as many users expressed their admiration for the young man. On the other hand, some pointed out the conditions in which many Mexicans must live to study or work, rekindling the debate about the lack of decent and affordable housing in the country.
Source: aldialogo
