Undocumented Student Program (USP) % | Nevada State College

Undocumented Student Program (USP)

 This page is being updated during Summer 2022. For direct assistance, contact Mariana Sarmiento, Manager of Undocumented Student Programs at mariana.sarmiento@nsc.flywheelstaging.com or 702-992-2395.

Our Mission

The NSC Undocumented Student Program (USP) in the Office of Community, Engagement, Diversity & Inclusion (CEDI) works holistically with undocumented immigrant students and mixed-status families in accessing an equitable college education. NSC USP supports undocumented students starting from college access to graduation. USP strives to do this by: 

  1. Providing individualized advising and case management for current and future Nevada State College undocumented students  
  2. Advocating with and for undocumented students through trainings and programming for Nevada State College students, faculty, staff and administration  
  3. Increasing community-wide awareness of policies affecting current and future Nevada State College undocumented students 
  4. Promoting a culture of equity and connectedness around undocumented student support throughout campus and beyond 

Get Support

The Undocumented Student Program (USP) is available to help students: 

  • Learn about available resources including financial aid, legal, health, academic, careers and other resources. 
  • Answer questions about topics that impact undocumented students including accessing scholarships, renewing DACA, career access without work authorization. 
  • Be a part of a community that wants to see them thrive and graduate! 

To get support or to make an appointment, contact Mariana Sarmiento, Manager of Undocumented Programs at mariana.sarmiento@nsc.flywheelstaging.com or 702-992-2395. 

 

UndocuScorpion Newsletter

The UndocuScorpion Newsletter is a bi-monthly email newsletter with updates, resources and opportunities for Nevada State College’s undocumented community. We encourage anybody to sign up for this newsletter whether they are directly undocumented or allies, including students, faculty/ staff, and community members. Sign up here.

Stay Connected

Instagram: @nevadastatecedi

Mariana Sarmiento-Hernández, MSW

Mariana is the current Manager of Undocumented Programs at the Office of Community, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (CEDI). As a DACA recipient raised in Las Vegas, she is passionate about increasing access to higher education for undocumented Nevadans. Mariana earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Master of Social Work degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She enjoys being a plant mom, eating new foods, and exploring Nevada!

*Starting Nov. 1st* Apply for TheDream.US Scholarship!

Starting November 1, 2022, we encourage you to apply for our full-tuition scholarship for undocumented, DACA & TPS students! Learn more about this scholarship at thedream.us.

Download Our Flyer (English & Spanish)

*Due Sept. 11* TheDream.US Internship Funding Program

Do you have an unpaid internship? Turn it into a paid internship with funding from TheDream.US! If you are a Nevada State College TheDream.US Scholar with a work permit or ITIN (DACA is not required), you are eligible to apply for funding of $20/hour for your unpaid internship. Internships allow you to demonstrate your skills, explore career paths, and expand your professional network! Deadline to apply is September 11, 2022.

To learn more and apply visit nsc.flywheelstaging.com/careers/internship

TheDream.US Guide for Current Scholars

Check out this guide if you’re a current TheDream.US scholar at Nevada State College. It answers questions about requirements like scholar advising, when you can expect your scholarship funding, campus resources and more!

Read & Download the Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Undocumented students are our friends, colleagues, and community members. The word “undocumented” is broadly used to include all immigrants who reside in the United States without legal status (Immigrants Rising). This includes undocumented students with and without Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).  

Undocumented students come from diverse nationalities, racial and ethnic identities, and backgrounds. Nevada has the highest per capita number of undocumented immigrants, with 7% of the state population being undocumented, and 1 in 5 children having an undocumented parent (Pew Research Center).  

Yes! Nevada State College welcomes all students interested in a college education. In Nevada, public colleges and universities do not require legal immigration or citizenship status to enroll in classes. Learn about applying to Nevada State College through the Office of Admissions & Recruitment 

Additionally, any student who graduates from a Nevada high school is automatically eligible for in-state tuition regardless of their immigration status (also known as resident tuition rates). This is often referred to as “tuition equity.” If a student doesn’t graduate from a Nevada high school, they are still able to enroll in classes.  

Nevada State College offer multiple financial aid options for undocumented students:  

  • Incoming Students including freshman high school graduates and community college transfers can apply for scholarships through the Office of Admissions & Recruitment. 
  • Incoming Students including freshman high school graduates and community college transfers are encouraged to apply for TheDream.US National Scholarship. This scholarship provides a full-tuition scholarship (up to $33,000) for undocumented students interested in attending Nevada State College. Scholarship applications for the 2023-2024 school year open in November 2022. 
  • Current and admitted students are encouraged to submit the Non Federal Aid Application through the Financial Aid Office, in order to be eligible for institutional assistance based on financial need.  
  • Current students are encouraged to apply for scholarships in different offices and departments throughout the school year. Students can learn about these scholarships and programs by regularly checking their NSC Portal Announcements and their student email.  
  • All students are encouraged to sign up for the Undocumented Student Program’s UndocuScorpion Newsletter. This is a monthly e-newsletter with information about resources and scholarships. 

About 

Nevada State College is a proud Partner College for TheDream.US, the nation’s largest scholarship and access program for undocumented students. Undocumented students interested in attending Nevada State College are encouraged to apply for TheDream.US National Scholarship, which provides a full-tuition and renewable scholarship for undocumented students as well as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients. Nevada State College currently supports over 100 TheDream.US Scholarship Recipients that have enrolled in our college since 2017.  

Benefits 

The National Scholarship provides up to $33,000 for high school graduates and $16,000 for community college graduates completing their Bachelor’s Degree at Nevada State College. In addition to scholarship assistance, scholars also receive a $500 stipend each semester for books and supplies as well as individualized assistance from a Nevada State College Scholar Advisor to support them throughout their college journey.  

 Apply 

Applications for the 2022-2023 school year are now closed. Applications for the 2023-2024 school year open in November 2022 and close in February 2023. To learn about eligibility and to apply, visit thedream.us. For more information about the scholarship program, contact Mariana Sarmiento, Manager of Undocumented Programs at mariana.sarmiento@nsc.flywheelstaging.com or 702-992-2395.  

DACA and TPS recipients with work authorization are eligible for employment on campus.  

Undocumented students who don’t have DACA or TPS are not eligible to be employed on campus. However, there are opportunities throughout the college where all students may be eligible for stipends or scholarships. One example is the Writing Center’s Internship Positions that open every Spring Semester.  

*New Opportunity* Apply for the TDUS Internship Funding Program starting August 1st! Do you have an unpaid internship? Turn it into a paid internship with funding from TheDream.US. Deadline to apply is September 11, 2022. To learn more and apply visit nsc.flywheelstaging.com/careers/internship

Students can learn about employment opportunities, paid internships and scholarships by visiting the Career Services office. Students can also regularly check their NSC Portal Announcements and their student email for opportunities. All students are encouraged to sign up for the Undocumented Student Program’s UndocuScorpion Newsletter. This is a monthly e-newsletter with information about resources and scholarships. To sign up, email mariana.sarmiento@nsc.flywheelstaging.com. 

Campus Resources

Dreamers Club

The Dreamers Club was formed by the first 13 TheDream.US Scholars at Nevada State College in the Fall of 2017. This student organization focuses on providing a safe space for DACA and undocumented students to talk about their journey and experiences in college. Meetings consist of films, discussions, event planning, and activities.

Meetings are held once a month for approximately one hour. Dates and times for meetings during the Fall 2022 Semester are to be determined.

If you wish to receive updates and information on the club, email nscdreamersclub@gmail.com with your contact information and any questions. Follow Dreamer’s Club on Instagram at @NSCDreamersClub.

TheDream.US Summer Career Series

This Summer Career Series includes 5 event recordings focusing on career options and entrepreneurship regardless of work authorization status. This is especially helpful for students without DACA or work authorization. Click the image to see all of the recordings of these past events!

UndocuTeacher Resource Center

This resource has been co-developed in collaboration with various staff members across NSC who have experienced being undocumented first-hand and understand the unique challenges undocumented and DACAmented students experience in higher education and in the teaching profession. It is intended to help bridge the gaps that currently exist to making the teaching profession accessible & equitable for ALL undocumented immigrant communities. It is based on the work started by Jahahi Mazariego, who created the Undocumented Student Guide for Student Teaching Practicum for Northern Nevada students. 

This is dedicated to the aspiring educators whose immigration status has been made a barrier by larger systems. In addressing these processes here, we hope to stream-line the process for licensure and increase the accessibility of the teaching profession to all communities, particularly undocumented immigrant students who are committed to serving the places they call home. Click the image to view link.

Community Resources

Make the Road Nevada

Non-Profit Community Organization that fundraises for DACA renewals and provides resources to the immigrant community.

https://maketheroadnv.org/immigrant-justice/las-vegas-dream-fund/

Dream Big Nevada

Covid-19 and community resources. Help with DACA renewals and provides resources to the immigrant community.

https://dreambignv.org/resources/

Resource Guide for Immigrants by Nevada Senator Cortez Masto

This page provides resource guides for Nevada residents, including a guide for immigrants. Available in English and Spanish, must be downloaded in Adobe PDF format.

https://www.cortezmasto.senate.gov/resource-guides

Nevada Health Centers

Offers low-cost services on a sliding fee scale based on federal poverty levels for those without insurance. There are multiple health centers located in Northern and Southern Nevada. For more information about Nevada Health Centers, please call 800.787.2568 or find a health center near you.

https://www.nevadahealthcenters.org/

Southern Nevada Health District

We’re working to keep Southern Nevada healthy!

https://www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/southern-nevada-community-health-center

Free Clinic Directory

Free Clinic Directory is committed to helping you find free and affordable clinics in your area.

https://freeclinicdirectory.org/search

Huntridge Family Clinic

The clinic services the LGBTQ community, and also offers support to undocumented folks on a sliding fee scale.

 https://www.huntridgefamilyclinic.org/

Hope Christian Health Center

This health center is open to undocumented folks on a sliding fee scale. You must call first.

https://hopehealthvegas.org/

Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada

This non-profit health organization provides free primary health care and wellness services to low-income, uninsured individuals.

http://www.vmsn.org/about-us/

UNLV School of Medicine

Offers comprehensive outpatient services for the community. Will be conducting free testing for COVID-19 starting March 24th until tests run out. By Appointment Only. Must be exhibiting symptoms and/or meet CDC guidelines for testing. Call (702) 583-4408 for appointments.

https://www.unlvmedicine.org/

Planned Parenthood of Southern Nevada

One person per visit (only the person who is seeking care, all other folks joining, must wait in the car). Only immediate needs are being considered, such as STI screenings, cancer screenings and possible emergency referrals, but no “wellness checks”.

Locations: 3220 W. Charleston Blvd; 3300 E. Flamingo #35

Phone: 1-800-230-7526

https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-rocky-mountains

UNLV Immigration Law Clinic

The UNLV Immigration Clinic offers FREE consultations and legal services to UNLV and CSN students, staff, and their families. Make an appointment with our attorney or call our office at (702) 895-2080 for more information. Appointments are now available at both UNLV and CSN campuses.

https://law.unlv.edu/clinics/immigration

National Immigration Law Center

Legal advocacy and resources, everyone in the U.S. has certain basic rights under the U.S. Constitution.

https://www.nilc.org/get-involved/community-education-resources/know-your-rights/

Legal Aid of Southern Nevada

Legal Aid of Southern Nevada continues to operate normal business hours. To reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 (coronavirus), Legal Aid Center will assist all clients via phone at (702) 386-1070 or email at info@lacsn.org.

https://www.lacsn.org/

Immigration Center for Women & Children

Provides free and low-cost legal immigration assistance. For assistance, call (702) 430-7981.

https://www.icwclaw.org/contact

Nevada Legal Services

provides legal assistance on tenants’ rights, government benefits, consumer issues, elder law, and more. For assistance contact via email, phone, or the contact us website page.

https://nlslaw.net/contact/

Income & Career Options for DACA/Undocumented Students.

Video Recording by TheDream.US

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY6ycbZIEmY&feature=youtu.be

Alternative Income & Career Options for DACA/Undocumented Students.

Powerpoint Presentation by TheDream.US

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qZU_SkZsgffrgprQ404Uo-xprYHbaAnW/view

Part#1: Understanding What It Means to Work for Yourself

Everyone, regardless of immigration status, can make money by building their own businesses and working for themselves. We’re here to show you how to generate income through entrepreneurship and freelancing. See below for tools to help you get your #UndocuHustle on!

Recording: https://youtu.be/7pfB5WrTwEE

Slides: shorturl.at/uwDFQ (with links to resources)

In Spanish: Aprende Como Generar Ingresos y Ser Un Emprendedor

Grabación: https://youtu.be/71YV36Iu6o8

Presentación en PowerPoint: shorturl.at/evNW8 (con links a recursos)

Part #2: Developing an Entrepreneurship Mindset

Learn how to get started with entrepreneurship. The webinar will provide a hands-on approach to turn your specific skills, experience and knowledge into opportunities to generate income.

Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F98rw7N9PkU

Slides: shorturl.at/atMQ1 (with links to resources)

In Spanish: Desarrollando Una Mentalidad Emprendedora

Information for Faculty & Staff

Faculty, staff, and administrators are integral to providing support for students. Here are ways for staff/ faculty allies to get involved.

Serving Undocumented Students Subcommittee

The Serving Undocumented Students Subcommittee operates under the NSC Diversity & Inclusion Taskforce (DITF) with the goal of providing a network of support for undocumented and DACA students on campus. To join the subcommittee, contact mariana.sarmiento@nsc.flywheelstaging.com.

NSHE All Access Committee

The mission of the NSHE All Access Coalition (NSHE AAC) is to build a comprehensive, state-wide support system for immigrant students who are undocumented, including recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). In order to increase recruitment, retention, and graduation rates, the NSHE AAC works to implement practical, research-informed, institutionalized and systemic policies and to provide tangible resources and on-campus support. By sharing information and collaborating, the NSHE AAC is able to guide best-practices, impact equity and intervene when necessary to advocate with and for student needs. To join, contact mariana.sarmiento@nsc.flywheelstaging.com.

The following undocumented student support syllabus statement may be modified and included on your syllabi.

Undocumented Student Support
Immigration is a complex phenomenon with broad impact—those who are directly affected by it, as well as those who are indirectly affected by their relationships with family members, friends, and loved ones. If your immigration status presents obstacles to engaging in specific activities or fulfilling specific course criteria, please request support from the NSC Undocumented Student Program (USP). USP offers support services and coordinates resource access for undocumented students (with and without DACA) as well as students from mixed-status families. To learn more, visit nsc.flywheelstaging.com/undocumented.

Adapted from The University of Utah Dream Center.

The Undocumented Student Program (USP) is proud to to host UndocuAlly Training for faculty, staff, and administration in order to encourage the development of a safe and welcoming campus for undocumented students. Training dates are pending for the 2022-2023 school year.

Request an UndocuAlly Workshop
To learn more about UndocuAlly Training or to request a training for your office or department, please email mariana.sarmiento@nsc.flywheelstaging.com.

Get Info