Important Information for DACA & Undocumented Students: Immediate Guidance & Support (February 2025)

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We understand that recent developments around immigration policies may be causing concern for many of our DACA and undocumented students. Our goal is to provide you with clear guidance on how to protect your status and ensure your academic journey remains uninterrupted. Below are important updates and advice to help you navigate the current landscape.

1. Stay Informed About Policy Changes

We are closely monitoring immigration policy changes that may impact DACA and undocumented students. While the situation may evolve, here are immediate actions you should consider:

2. Maintain Your Legal Status & Work Authorization

  • DACA students: If you have DACA status, ensure that your work authorization is up to date. If your work permit or other documentation is about to expire, please apply for renewal as early as possible.
  • Undocumented students: You may not have formal work authorization, but if you are employed or involved in internships, be sure that you understand and follow the appropriate legal guidelines. If you have concerns, please contact our office for advice.

3. Carry Your Documents

It is important to have access to your key documents if you need them for identification or legal purposes.

  • Carry a copy of your DACA approval notice or any other relevant legal documentation when off-campus.
  • If you do not have DACA, make sure you have other forms of identification (e.g., state ID, student ID, etc.).
  • Keep your documents in a secure place: Store your original paperwork (DACA approval, renewal notices, etc.) in a safe and easily accessible location.
  • Carry your Student ID, regardless of status.

4. Know Your Rights & Be Prepared

  • Know your rights: You have legal rights, regardless of your immigration status. If approached by law enforcement or immigration officials, you do not have to answer questions about your immigration status without a lawyer present.
    • DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door
    • DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent
    • DO  NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer
    • ASK ICE TO LEAVE
  • If you are detained or questioned: Ask to speak to an attorney. We recommend that you identify an immigration lawyer now and carry that information with you.
  • Do not engage in risky behavior: Avoid participating in activities that could put your status at risk, such as protests or situations where you could be detained or questioned by authorities.

5. Keep Your Contact Information Updated

Please ensure that your contact information (email, phone, address) is current in our system (Highlander Hub). We rely on this to send you important updates.

  • Stay connected: You may also want to sign up for updates from trusted organizations such as [local immigrant advocacy groups or the National Immigration Law Center].

6. Seek Support & Legal Guidance

We want to remind you that we are here to support you.

  • Campus support: The Center for Global Engagement is available to offer guidance and help connect you with legal and advocacy resources.
  • Legal consultations: We highly recommend that you consult with an immigration attorney or a local immigrant aid office to understand how any potential policy changes could affect you. Many organizations provide free or low-cost legal services for DACA and undocumented students.
    • https://ccetn.org/office-of-immigrant-services/
    • https://tiesknoxville.org/
    • https://www.bridgerefugees.org/
    • https://www.tnimmigrant.org/
    • https://www.centrohispanotn.org/services/

7. We Are Here for You

The Maryville College community stands with you. We know this is a challenging time, and we are committed to helping you succeed in your academic and personal journey. If you need any assistance or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office.

What you can expect from the Center for Global Engagement (CGE):

  • Confidentiality: Assure students that their information will be kept confidential.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Staff are trained in cultural competency and
  • Continuous Support: the college is committed to your long-term success.

Please stay connected for updates and resources. We will continue to monitor any developments that could affect DACA and undocumented students.

Thank you for being an important part of our community.