Monarch ButterfylUndocumented students and students living in mixed-status families are vibrant–but often invisible and underserved–members of our educational communities. The Immigration Initiative at Harvard is committed to providing a welcoming learning community empowering all students to flourish.


Terms & Definitions

Undocumented: A noncitizen in the US. Not to be confused with international student.
DACA: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
TPS: Temporary Protected Status
Mixed Status: Individual with family members of varying legal status.


HGSE Undocumented Student Affinity Group

Welcome! I am excited to announce that I will be serving as the advisor for the Undocumented Student Affinity Group this year at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. I aim to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for you to discuss your aspirations, challenges, and concerns.

As an immigrant myself and a researcher long-focused on the experiences of immigrant children and youth, I am deeply committed to supporting you–our undocumented and DACAmented students as well as students living in mixed-status families–in your educational journeys. I understand the unique obstacles that you and your families face and am here to offer guidance, resources, and advocacy to help you navigate your academic and personal lives.

I am committed to cultivating an Affinity Group that you will find both nurturing and meaningful. Please watch for announcements for meetings and events. When we first meet, together we will plan the activities for the year.

I also encourage you to schedule office hours with me to discuss any issues of concern. Our meetings will be strictly confidential, and I will work with you to find solutions and connect you with appropriate resources both within and outside the university. To schedule an appointment, go to my Calendly link here–To Make an Appointment. I will do my best to accommodate your schedule and find a time that works for you. If you have any urgent concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out, and I will respond as quickly as possible.

Remember, you are not alone in your journey. As the Undocumented Student Affinity Group adviser, I am here to support you, advocate for you, and celebrate your successes. I look forward to meeting with you soon and working together!

Warmly,
Carola Suárez-Orozco
Undocumented/DACAmented Student Affinity Group Advisor
Professor in Residence, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Director, Immigration Initiative at Harvard
414 Gutman, Appian Way, Cambridge, MA 02138
To Make an Appointment


Resources for Students

UndocuWisdom: Life lessons and advice on how to live well despite the challenges of undocumented status

UndocuAllies (Harvard Graduate School of Education)

Undocumented at Harvard

Harvard Immigration and Refugee Clinic

Act on a Dream (Harvard College)

Things I’ll never say – Platform for Undocumented young people to create their own narratives

My Undocumented Life

From Dreamer to Doer: College Resources for Undocumented Students


Resources for Educators & Counselors

Unafraid Educators

Teaching about Family separation at the U.S. Border – Facing History and Ourselves

Immigrants Rising — Organization that provides resources and opportunities to support the educational and career goals of undocumented youth

Supporting students from immigrant families

Undocumented and immigrant student resources

Re-Imagining Migration

Guide to College Admissions for Undocumented Students


Immigration Advocacy Resources

United We Dream

Massachusetts Immigrant & Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA)