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Undocumented Students

As an immigrant or a child of immigrants, you may have special interests and concerns when it comes to your future career path. Regardless of immigration status, you may be interested in learning about special resources and opportunities related to your background.

For those who are undocumented, you will likely have additional special considerations as you navigate the career development process. DACA students are part of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which was launched in 2012. The Maryland Dream Act, also passed in 2012, allows undocumented community college students to transfer to the University of Maryland and pay in-state tuition.

Immigrants with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) are provided temporary immigration status and a work permit (EAD) for 6, 12 or 18 months at a time.

Whatever your immigration status may be, our Center is here to support you as you map out your future career goals.

Top Career-Related Tips:

  • Regardless of immigration status, the best way to build your resume for your future career is through skill-building experiences such as internships, volunteer work, research with a faculty member, independent study projects, shadowing experiences (“Intern for a Day”), taking a leadership role in a student group and community organizing. 
  • For DACAmented students, stay informed on the latest updates to DACA and learn more about renewing your work permit. Most job applications will ask, “Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?” If you have DACA, you are able to answer “yes” and continue through the hiring process without disclosing additional information about your background. 
  • For students with TPS, your work permit also allows you to answer “yes” to the question about your legal authorization to work in the United States.
  • This video shares two helpful perspectives on if and how you may choose to disclose your status in a job interview.
  • Regardless of immigration status, there are several entrepreneurial options open to you including independent contracting, starting a business, freelancing and/or worker cooperatives. Learn more about these options here, here and here.
  • Depending on your field, graduate school may be a logical step after completing your bachelor’s degree. Many graduate schools have funding sources to help you meet the cost of their programs. Check to see if you would be able to apply for research, teaching or graduate assistantships in offices on campus. For undocumented students in particular, this blog has tips for applying to graduate school and finding scholarships. 

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