The Undocumented Student Support Services offers students the opportunity to join the UndocuScholars Learning Community (ULC) at LMU and emerge themselves in the ULC’s five program pillars. The ULC is designed to empower undocumented, DACAmented, AB540, and/or TPS students to become leaders, social justice advocates, and change makers while giving them the tools to thrive at LMU. The goal of the ULC and LC is to create a brave space that gives scholars the opportunity to explore their undocumented experience through dialogue, storytelling, and learning about the possibilities beyond graduation. Through the ULC, scholars will connect with undocumented creators/activists/entrepreneurs/practitioners to foster a network of UndocuScholars that offers holistic mentorship, guidance, and support.
Benefits
By joining the ULC, scholars will have the opportunity to emerge in an Ignatian Leadership Institute course that centers our five pillars. Additionally, scholars will be equipped with the right tools to help them thrive at LMU regardless of their immigration status and to understand their options and opportunities beyond the LMU community. This program will support scholars and help them build a sense of community, raise hope, and achieve their academic goals. Our five pillars main mission is to educate and ignite immigrant justice leaders.
- Academic and Professional Development - Our academic and professional development pillar is aimed at encouraging scholars to strive beyond their academic path. From resources like one-on-one check-ins to peer mentorship, students are given the tools to thrive throughout their LMU years. Additionally, we aim to teach and equip participants with professional skills and knowledge essential to flourish beyond the bluff.
- Wellness Support - Our wellness support pillar stands as a cornerstone designed to destigmatize mental health in the immigrant community and empower students to seek resources (I.e., Basic Needs, Mental Health). Through reflective and mindful opportunities, scholars will foster an understanding of caring for oneself in mind, body, and spirit.
- Leadership Development - Our leadership development pillar is designed to enhance student leadership and build confidence as they navigate higher education. Scholars will be equipped with the knowledge to access and utilize campus services, support services, and resources available to them regardless of immigration status. Scholars will engage in opportunities that ignite immigrant justice leaders.
- Policy Advocacy and Education - Our Policy Advocacy and Education pillar will empower scholars to become global citizens and engage civically on issues related to immigration. Scholars will obtain skills to navigate legislative policies and immigration procedures that impact their community
- Financial Literacy - Our Financial Literacy pillar will provide the scholars with essential information to manage their finances and become financially independent. The scholars will gain hands-on experience with budgeting, financial investments, and strategizing to ignite their entrepreneurial spirit.
Program Requirements
ULC participants will be asked to:
- Participate in a three-day summer program that centers service work and learning opportunities through reflection.
- Attend the entire duration of the summer program/retreat.
- Enroll in a one-unit Ignatian Leadership course.
- Join USP class on Brightspace and update progress.
- Attend UndocuWelcome Day (typically occurs during the second week of fall semester).
- Meet with their Academic Advisor at least once each semester.
- Meet with USSS director at least once each semester.
- Attend a minimum of three program activities, events, or workshops hosted by the USSS outside of the classroom.
- Meet with Loyola Immigrant Justice Clinic for free consultation (if you do not have an attorney or USCIS case).
- Attend Social Justice Scholars and UndocuScholar Recognition Celebration at the end of the spring semester.
Social Justice Scholars interested in participating, are expected to meet additional scholarship guidelines:
- Must maintain a 2.75 GPA
- Must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 units
- Must have submitted a California Dream Act application to the California Student Aid Commission (if applicable)
What should you expect from the USCLC experience?
- Semester check-in with USSS staff
- Build a close relationship with peers
- Off-campus excursions
- Professional development and leadership conferences
- Alumni connections and guidance
- Undocu community connections