As immigration policies continue to evolve, the campus community faces growing uncertainty about their academic and professional futures. With safety and concerns on the line, it’s important to ensure that students and staff are informed about their rights and the resources available to them.
On January 20, 2025, the new Presidential Administration rescinded the 2021 policy that prohibited federal immigration officers from taking enforcement actions (such as arrest) in protected areas, including schools, hospitals, and places of worship.
Stanislaus State has taken procedures to inform the community about these policies and ensure that every individual, regardless of their immigration status—feels safe and supported in pursuing their educational and career goals.
The reality is some students, particularly those in the undocumented community, face increased uncertainty about their ability to continue their education.
A currently enrolled undocumented student here at Stanislaus State gave us some insight into how these policies have impacted their experience here at Stan State and the resources offered on campus.
The student emphasized that now more than ever, it’s important for students to stick together and make use of the resources available at the university, such as the Warrior Food Pantry.
The student brought up some struggles that they face due to being undocumented and how accessing such resources can make a significant difference in their well-being and success at school.
“The pantry is great for undocumented students, as finding a job can be really difficult, especially being undocumented.” the student shared
This undocumented student has brought up the concern of instability and whether they will ever have the opportunity to fully invest in their future. They mention that it is not just a day-to-day survival but a long-term planning concern.
From their point of view, the student states, “It has been difficult trying to balance school with also planning your future, just because you don’t know how far you’ll be able to go.”
Despite the challenges, the student has managed to lean on family, friends, faith, and the support provided by resources like DACA to continue to pursue their education and push forward even through policy changes.
For those facing these uncertainties, the campus offers a range of support systems designed to provide help during these changing times.
Guillermo Metelin Bock serves here at Stanislaus State as the Undocumented Student Service Lead, a position that allows him to directly advocate for and support undocumented students. Undocumented Student Services (USS) operates on a three-tier model, addressing students’ personal, professional, and academic needs.
Metelin states, “Regardless of the way that the political climate is, regardless of the political landscape shift, we are here to support our students, and our students are determined to succeed.”
He mentions a lot of resources that collaborate and work with Undocumented Student Services to help students, especially at times like this. Metelin says daily updates can be referred to mostly on their Instagram (@stanstateundocu), where you can find sessions, events, and resources for the community.
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Screenshot of an email from the Chancellor’s Office outlining recent administration changes and growing community concerns over unprecedented executive orders.
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Screenshot of an email from Stan’s State President, showing support for the undocumented community members and advocating staying informed and connected.
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“We created an initiative where we now developed two web pages under Undocumented Student Services; One is Know Your Rights webpage that informs… our community in general of their constitutional rights regardless of their immigration status, and… another web page of Community Resources,” says Metelin
Metelin highlights how the information extends beyond digital media to physical outreach, giving easy accessibility to both online and in-person.
“Flyers are going to be posted across campus in different offices and different departments. We also distributed a lot of the red cards across campus that are both in English and Spanish.”
Departments like Undocumented Student Services, EAP, and CAPS are consistent in informing up-to-date support to students and staff.
As policies continue to evolve, resources like Undocumented Student Services remain dedicated to ensuring that students have access to the resources, knowledge, and support they need to succeed.
This article highlights diversity and inclusivity, reflecting Stan State’s commitment to providing a safe space for students of all backgrounds. As policy changes continue to impact the academic environment, campus leaders and organizations are working to ensure all community members, both on and off campus, have access to support that is vital to their success.
