The Internationalization of Undocumented/DACAmented Students in Higher Education

• In Event: 30.055 - Undocumented Latina/o Students Navigating Higher Education

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to understand the lived experiences of college students who meet the criteria for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program at a private research university. Researchers conducted qualitative interviews with 8 DACAmented college students who were enrolled and attending, at least part-time, a private research university. Results of the study reveal that undocumented/DACAmented students are treated as international students, severely depriving them of identity development, institutional support, and resources needed to successfully persist in higher education.

Authors

• Darsella Vigil, Unversity of Denver

• Susana Maria Munoz, Colorado State University - Fort Collins