College can be challenging, but it is rarely talked about how difficult it can be for undocumented immigrant students, and students should be more aware of this problem.
According to the Presidents’ Alliance, in March of 2021, it was reported that nearly 427,000 students in the American University System were undocumented. This means that the struggles of nearly half-a-million college students living in the U.S. are not being told.
College is a constant reminder that no two people live the same experience. Different experiences shape well-rounded perspectives. Some experiences are exclusive to undocumented students and it is important that they are represented within the community here at Kennesaw State University.
Students living as undocumented immigrants also experience the struggles of juggling due dates and social life, but often do so without the physical support of their families being there with them. Some students are physically separated by borders from their families and would put themselves at risk by going back home to visit.
This applies to sporadic weekends when students get homesick and holidays like Thanksgiving or winter break when the American University System closes campuses nationwide. Many undocumented students rely heavily on on-campus housing and struggle when campuses are closed.
Undocumented immigrant students have the added stress of dealing with discrimination from their peers and professors, having to constantly prove that they have earned their seat at the “table of education.” This can lead to many students hiding their immigration status from those around them, in fear of being outed. This can quickly snowball into many students living a very isolated lifestyle.
Applying for student loans can be a hassle for undocumented students since most applications for financial aid require a social security number and other information that helps the school identify a student. Social security numbers are also required to work in the U.S. which makes it harder for undocumented students to find other sources of aid.
The list in which ways undocumented students struggle in the American University system stretches far beyond what many will ever know, which is why it is important to stay educated and show solidarity to those fighting unknown battles.
Informational sites to raise more awareness, further education and become advocates for undocumented students in the American University System such as UNDOCUSCHOLARS, President’s Alliance and My Undocumented Life can be helpful.
