“They Didn’t Know What to Tell Me”: Supporting Undocumented College Students

Abstract

Using data from 40 qualitative interviews with undocumented immigrant students, this article explores the experiences of undocumented students in seeking help applying to and navigating college. Participants reported mixed experiences---some received incorrect information about the options available to them or immigration policies, whereas others found robust information about their options and forged connections with organizations for undocumented students. These findings illuminate new structural and interpersonal mechanisms for supporting undocumented students.