Resources for undocumented students

During this time when ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) spreads uncertainty and fear in America, resources have not reached many undocumented students at Oglethorpe University. 

Students at the Intercultural Center | Photo via Oglethorpe University

Not all undocumented students attending the university are aware of the support and aid the school provides them. Alexa Miranda, a commuting senior, is unaware of the aid that the university provides. “Oglethorpe lacks adequate staff to genuinely help undocumented students, first gen, and dream US Scholars successfully,” she said. She is just one of many students who is unaware of what the university is doing for the undocumented students. Students feel that Oglethorpe is not fulfilling their needs. 

Students like Edwin Espinal and Olixa Murillo, commuting seniors, are aware of the resources, but due to transportation and work schedules, they are not available to attend the workshops. 

Staff are aware of the issue and have taken the measures needed to protect undocumented students. A resource that they provide is counseling. Additionally, students can speak with Raquel Manzano, Assistant Director of First Generation and Student Support Program. She is also TheDream US Scholar Advisor. Students can also speak with Marisol Zacarias, Director of the Intercultural Center, if they have questions. Their offices are located in the Intercultural Center. Students can also speak with professors or faculty with whom they feel comfortable.

UndocuAlly Flyer | Photo via Intercultural Center Instagram

Oglethorpe staff have also passed out information about knowing your rights and what to do in

case ICE knocks on your door. They have also provided workshops. Recently, ICC did a workshop, UndocuAlly which took place on Feb. 12.. 

Zacarias recently gave a presentation that covered a wide range of information regarding undocumented students. Topics that were included in the presentation were on laws and the status of the overall undocumented community, the rights of the undocumented students, and ways the audience can help support them. 

Throughout campus, staff have also provided QR codes that lead to a Word document which contains a list of resources such as food access, affordable healthcare and mental health services, affordable housing, and affordable legal/immigration services. 

Oglethorpe University is a partner for the Dream US Scholarship. The Dream US scholarship is available to ‘Dreamers’ and undocumented students who want to pursue higher education. Oglethorpe University accepts scholarships like Achieve Atlanta that help undocumented students. Oglethorpe has the resources that students need and is attempting to do what benefits undocumented students and the community.