Understanding Immigration Statuses
Please know there is much variation among immigration statuses as well as subgroups within many of these categories. A brief overview of some of these terms is listed below:
- DACA Recipients
Individuals brought to the U.S. as children who receive temporary protection from deportation and work authorization - Refugees
Individuals forced to flee their home country due to conflict, persecution, or violence - TPS Holders
People granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) due to unsafe conditions in their home country - Students in Various Stages of Pursuing Resident Status:
Individuals residing in the U.S. without legal immigration status (also referred to as “undocumented”) - International Students
An international student is a person who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the country where they are studying. They may also be known as exchange students or foreign students. - A Special Note Regarding Students of Puerto Rican Descent
Puerto Ricans have been U.S. citizens since 1917 but have no vote in Congress. As citizens, the people of Puerto Rico can move back and forth from the island and throughout the fifty states just as any other Americans can. It is key to recognize that, legally, this is considered internal migration, not immigration.
For more details, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
Key Challenges Immigrant Students Face
- Legal Uncertainty
Unstable immigration policies create financial and emotional stress - Financial Barriers
Limited access to financial aid - Language Barriers
Many students are learning English as a second language - Mental Health Concerns
Fear of deportation, cultural adjustment and academic pressure - Misinformation
Risk of falling victim to scams or misleading legal advice - Social Isolation
Needing support in establishing community with peers
Sample Language-Empathizing with Students Facing These Key Challenges
Regarding Uncertainty About Status:
"I understand that the uncertainty surrounding DACA can be incredibly stressful. Please know that you are not alone and there are resources and support systems here to help you navigate these challenges. If you ever need assistance or someone to talk to, don't hesitate to reach out."
Regarding Rebuilding One’s Life:
"I recognize the strength it takes to rebuild your life after fleeing conflict or persecution. Your experiences are important, and if there is anything I can do to support you in your academic journey, please do not hesitate to let me know. This is a safe space for you."
Regarding Feeling a Sense of Isolation:
“I know that Temporary Protected Status can come with its own set of concerns about the future. I want to reassure you that we stand with you, and you have a community here that is committed to supporting you, no matter what changes may come."
Regarding Ambiguity in Pursuing Documented Status:
"I understand that being undocumented can bring a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to accessing resources or navigating policies. I want you to know that your education is important, and we are here to make sure you have the support you need to succeed. You're not alone in this."
General Support for All:
"If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, please know that I’m here to listen as a sounding board without judgment. Whether it’s connecting you to campus resources or just offering a safe space to talk, I’m committed to supporting you."
Helpful Resources
Academic Support
- Advising Services: CT State links immigrant students to community resources and some offer workshops.
- ESOL/ESL (English as a Second Language) Programs: These programs are available at most CT State campuses.
- International Advisors: Support for international students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where they are studying. These students may also be known as exchange students or foreign students.
- Transfer and Scholarship Guidance: Advisors help identify pathways to four-year universities and financial aid.
Career and Professional Development
- Internships and Job Support: Resources for work authorization (DACA, TPS holders).
- Alternative Career Pathways: Entrepreneurship and independent contracting guidance.
Financial Assistance
- In-State Tuition: Undocumented students meeting residency requirements qualify for in-state tuition.
- Emergency Financial Aid: Some campuses offer grants or loans to students facing financial hardship.
Food Assistance
- Campus Food Pantries: Available across campuses
- United Way Mobile Food Pantries: The mobile pantry is on the Three Rivers campus the second Wednesday of the month. February and March we will host the event indoors and then go back to an outside event in the back parking lot when the weather improves
Mental Health and Wellness
- Mental Health Services: Free and confidential mental health support services, including counseling sessions, are available at all CT State campuses. Moreover, there are free virtual medical, counseling and basic needs services available via TimelyCare.
- Peer Support Groups: Student-led organizations supporting undocumented and immigrant students.
- Safe Spaces: Social support and facilitated discussions addressing the impact of immigration policies on students.
- Staff Affinity Groups: Lunch and Learn Teams meetings that are peer-led by staff to support the inclusion and community-building of staff from underrepresented groups
Red cards, also known as “Tarjetas Rojas”, are cards that help immigrants assert their rights when interacting with immigration officers. The Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) created the cards.
