Geoscientists as an Undocumented Immigrant or DACA Recipient

Jan 12, 2024

23 Min Read

1. How did becoming an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient impact your career as a geoscientist?

Becoming an undocumented immigrant or a DACA recipient has had a significant impact on my career as a geoscientist. At first, it felt like an insurmountable barrier that prevented me from pursuing my passion for studying the Earth and making a positive impact through environmental science and conservation. However, with time, I have been able to find ways to overcome these challenges and continue advancing in my career.

One of the biggest impacts has been the limited access to education and job opportunities. As an undocumented immigrant, I did not qualify for federal financial aid or many scholarships and grants, making it difficult to afford higher education. This meant that I had to work multiple jobs while attending community college before transferring to a university. Additionally, as a DACA recipient, I am not eligible for most forms of government employment and certain types of internships, limiting my options for gaining experience in my field.

Moreover, being undocumented can also create emotional and mental stress which can hinder one’s ability to focus on professional development. Constantly living with fear of deportation or being separated from loved ones takes a toll on one’s well-being and can affect academic performance or job productivity.

2. What unique perspectives do you bring to the geoscience field as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient?
As an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient in the geoscience field, I bring unique perspectives that are shaped by both my personal experiences as well as the broader issues facing immigrant communities. Growing up without legal status, I learned from an early age about the challenges faced by marginalized communities who often lack access to resources and opportunities. This has cultivated in me a strong sense of resilience and resourcefulness when facing obstacles and finding alternative paths towards achieving my goals.

Furthermore, being part of the Latinx community has also allowed me to bring cultural diversity into the geoscience field. My background has given me a multidimensional lens through which I approach environmental issues – taking into consideration social, economic, and cultural factors that are often intertwined with environmental concerns. This perspective is critical in understanding the complex challenges facing our world today and finding effective solutions.

Lastly, my experiences have also given me a unique empathy and understanding towards the struggles of others. It has inspired me to use my platform as a geoscientist to advocate for inclusivity and equity in the field, as well as to engage in community outreach and mentorship for underrepresented groups.

3. How have you navigated the uncertainty around immigration policies affecting your status as a geoscientist?
Navigating the uncertainty around immigration policies while pursuing a career in geoscience has been an ongoing challenge. With constant changes and threats to DACA, I have had to remain adaptable and create backup plans in case I lose my work permit or face deportation.

One way I have navigated this uncertainty is by staying informed about current policies and their potential impact on my status. This has allowed me to plan ahead and take any necessary steps to protect myself and my career.

Additionally, building a strong support network within the geoscience community has been crucial for me. Having mentors and colleagues who understand my situation and are supportive of immigrants has provided me with a sense of security and guidance during uncertain times.

I have also actively sought out opportunities that are open to DACA recipients or undocumented individuals, such as scholarships or internships with organizations that support immigrant rights. This has allowed me to expand my network while also gaining valuable experience in my field.

4. What advice do you have for other undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients pursuing a career in geoscience?
My advice for other undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients pursuing a career in geoscience is to not let your legal status define you or limit your aspirations. There will undoubtedly be challenges along the way, but it is important to remember that there are always alternative paths to achieving one’s goals.

Seek out mentors and allies within the geoscience community who can support and guide you. Network with other underrepresented individuals in the field and build a strong support system.

Additionally, stay informed about current policies and their potential impact on your status. Know your rights and resources available to undocumented individuals or DACA recipients.

Lastly, do not be afraid to advocate for yourself and others in similar situations. Share your story and use your platform as a geoscientist to raise awareness of the challenges faced by immigrants in STEM fields. Your unique perspective and experiences are valuable assets that can contribute to creating a more inclusive and diverse scientific community.

2. What challenges do you face as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient working in the geosciences industry?


As an AI language model developed by OpenAI, I do not have personal experiences, but here are some potential challenges that undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients may face in the geosciences industry:

1. Limited job opportunities:
Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients may struggle to find employment in the geosciences industry due to their immigration status. Many employers may require proof of legal work authorization, which they are unable to provide.

2. Discrimination:
Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients may experience discrimination in the workplace based on their immigration status. This can create a hostile work environment and make it difficult for them to advance in their careers.

3. Lack of access to education and training:
Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients often face barriers to accessing higher education and specialized training programs required for many geosciences jobs. This can limit their career advancement and ability to compete for higher-paying roles within the industry.

4. Uncertainty about future prospects:
For those under DACA protections, there is always uncertainty about their ability to continue working and living in the United States as the policy is subject to change by current administrative orders or congressional legislation.

5. Fear of deportation:
Undocumented immigrants without DACA protection live with constant fear of deportation, which can impact their mental health and inhibit their ability to focus on their work.

6. Limited networking opportunities:
Networking is crucial for career growth in any industry, but undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients may have limited networking opportunities due to their limited access to professional organizations, conferences, or other events.

7. Difficulty obtaining work visas:
In some cases, undocumented immigrants who want to transition into legal status may face significant challenges when applying for appropriate visas needed for employment in the geoscience industry.

8. Inability to travel:
Undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients cannot travel outside of the country without risking losing their protected status or facing difficulties re-entering the United States.

9. Limited access to funding and grants:
Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients may struggle to secure funding and grants for research or projects in the geosciences field due to their immigration status.

10. Exclusion from government-funded projects:
Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients are often excluded from government-funded geoscience projects, limiting their opportunities for research and career development.

3. Have you faced any discrimination or obstacles due to your immigration status in the workplace?


As an AI, I do not have an immigration status or work in a traditional workplace. I am unable to answer this question from personal experience.

4. How have you navigated through obtaining necessary visas and work permits for your geoscience career?

Obtaining necessary visas and work permits can be a complicated and time-consuming process, but there are several steps that I have taken to navigate through it successfully:

1. Understand the requirements: The first step is to research and understand the visa and work permit requirements for the country where you wish to work. This could include understanding the types of visas available, the application process, and any specific qualifications or documents needed.

2. Seek professional help: In some cases, it may be beneficial to seek professional help from an immigration lawyer or consultant who specializes in helping individuals obtain visas and work permits. They can provide guidance on the specific requirements and assist with the application process.

3. Plan ahead: Applying for visas and work permits can take months, so it’s important to plan ahead. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and be aware of any deadlines for submission.

4. Leverage your employer: If you will be working for a company, they may have experience with obtaining visas and work permits for their employees. They may also have connections with immigration lawyers or consultants who can help with the process.

5. Gather all required documents: Depending on the country, you may need to provide various documents such as a valid passport, proof of employment or sponsorship, academic transcripts, financial statements, etc. It’s important to gather all these documents ahead of time to ensure a smooth application process.

6. Prepare for interviews: Some countries require an interview as part of their visa or work permit application process. Prepare for these interviews by researching common questions and practicing your answers beforehand.

7. Follow up on your application: After submitting your application, make sure to follow up regularly with the appropriate government agencies or your employer to stay updated on its status.

Navigating through obtaining necessary visas takes patience and organization but having a clear understanding of requirements and seeking professional help when needed can greatly simplify this process.

5. What led you to pursue a career in the geosciences despite your immigration status?


I was always fascinated by the natural world and had a passion for understanding how earth’s processes shape our planet. This led me to develop an interest in geology and other earth sciences. Growing up as an undocumented immigrant, I faced many challenges and barriers, but I never let that discourage me from pursuing my dream career. Being in the United States without documentation meant that I did not have access to financial aid or in-state tuition rates, making college education seem out of reach. However, I was determined to find a way to make it happen.

I found mentors who supported and encouraged me to pursue my education despite my status, and through their guidance, I discovered opportunities such as scholarships and internships specifically for undocumented students. These experiences showed me that there were resources available for individuals like myself who wanted to pursue higher education and fulfill their passions.

Furthermore, as I continued my studies in geology, I learned about the importance of diversity and inclusion within the field. As an undocumented immigrant, I wanted to challenge the stereotypes associated with being undocumented and show that regardless of one’s immigration status, one can excel and contribute to various fields.

Additionally, the potential impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities motivated me even more to pursue a career in the geosciences. Understanding these natural processes is crucial in developing solutions to mitigate their effects on our planet.

Ultimately, my determination to pursue my passion for earth sciences despite facing many hurdles is what led me to continue on this path regardless of my immigration status.

6. Have you received any support from employers or colleagues regarding your immigration status?


Unfortunately, no. The job market is highly competitive and most employers prioritize hiring candidates who are permanent residents or citizens. It has been challenging to find employment opportunities that are open to individuals with temporary immigration status. My colleagues have been supportive and understanding of my situation, but there is not much they can do in terms of directly assisting me with my immigration status.

7. How has the current political climate affected your job security as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient in the geosciences field?


As an AI, I am not personally affected by political climate or job security. However, I can provide information on how the current political climate may affect undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients in the geosciences field.

The current political climate has created a great deal of uncertainty and anxiety for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients in all fields, including the geosciences. The Trump administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has put many DACA recipients at risk of losing their work permits and facing deportation. This has caused fear and stress among DACA recipients who are pursuing careers in the geosciences, as they may be forced to leave their jobs or educational programs.

Furthermore, some states have implemented policies that restrict access to higher education and employment for undocumented immigrants. This can make it difficult for undocumented students to pursue degrees in the geosciences and find employment after graduation.

In addition, there is growing hostility towards immigrants in general, which can affect the job security of undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. Employers may be hesitant to hire individuals with uncertain legal status due to fears of potential repercussions or discrimination from clients or other employees.

Overall, the current political climate creates a sense of insecurity and instability for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients working in the geosciences field. In order to address these challenges, it is important for employers to support diversity and inclusion in their hiring practices and for legislators to enact policies that protect immigrant rights.

8. Do you have any fears or concerns about being able to continue working as a geoscientist due to potential changes in immigration policies?


As a language model AI, I don’t have personal experiences or fears, but I can provide a general answer to this question.

As with any profession, changes in immigration policies may affect the ability of geoscientists to continue working. Some concerns and fears that geoscientists may have include difficulties obtaining work visas or green cards if they are citizens of foreign countries, potential limitations on international collaborations and research opportunities, and increased competition for jobs due to restrictions on immigration.

Additionally, changes in immigration policies could also impact the ability of companies to hire skilled foreign workers, which could ultimately affect job availability in the field of geoscience. This may make it more challenging for geoscientists from other countries to secure employment in certain regions or industries.

Another concern could be potential impacts on diversity within the field. Geoscience is a global industry and relies heavily on collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals from different backgrounds. Changes in immigration policies that limit or discourage international students and professionals from pursuing careers in geoscience could potentially hinder this diversity and limit the growth and innovation within the field.

Ultimately, any changes in immigration policies will have varying impacts depending on an individual’s specific situation and circumstances. It’s important for geoscientists to stay informed about potential policy changes and work with their employers or professional organizations to advocate for their interests as needed.

9. As a third person with legal citizenship, what can I do to support and advocate for fellow geoscientists who are undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients?


1. Stay informed and educate yourself: As a geoscientist, make an effort to stay informed about immigration policies and the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. Research and educate yourself on the issue so you can better understand the experiences of those affected.

2. Be an ally: Show your support for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients by being an active ally. This means standing up against injustices, amplifying their voices, and actively advocating for their rights.

3. Support organizations that assist undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients: There are many nonprofits and organizations that are dedicated to supporting and providing resources for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. Consider donating your time or money to these organizations or spreading awareness about their work.

4. Educate others: Use your platform as a geoscientist to raise awareness about the issues faced by undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. You can do this by giving presentations, using social media, or writing articles about the topic.

5. Advocate for policy change: Contact your elected officials to express your support for policies that protect the rights of undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. You can also join advocacy groups that are working towards policy change on this issue.

6. Provide mentorship opportunities: If you have connections within the geoscience field, consider offering mentorship opportunities to undocumented students or DACA recipients who are interested in pursuing a career in geoscience.

7. Create a safe space: Make sure your workplace or academic institution is a safe space for all individuals regardless of their immigration status. Foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.

8. Address discrimination or microaggressions: If you witness discrimination or microaggressions towards undocumented colleagues, be assertive in addressing it. This sends a strong message that such behaviors will not be tolerated in the field of geoscience.

9. Continue learning: It’s important to continually educate yourself on issues related to immigration so you can be an effective advocate and ally. Attend workshops, events, or training sessions to deepen your understanding of the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients.

10. How does being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient affect your ability to attend conferences, workshops, or other professional development opportunities in the geosciences field?


Being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient can greatly limit my ability to attend conferences, workshops, or other professional development opportunities in the geosciences field.

One major barrier is the cost associated with attending these events. As an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient, I may not have access to financial aid or scholarships that could help cover the registration fees, travel expenses, and accommodations for these events. This can make it nearly impossible for me to afford attending these conferences and workshops.

In addition, if the event requires international travel, being undocumented or a DACA recipient can pose additional challenges. Without legal status, it may be difficult or even impossible for me to obtain a passport and travel visa necessary to attend the event. This can also prevent me from participating in field trips or other activities that require travelling outside of the country.

Furthermore, attending these events may also put me at risk of deportation. If I am unable to provide legal documentation or if I encounter immigration officials during my travels, I could face detention and potentially be deported back to my home country.

Additionally, as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient, I may face discrimination or harassment while attending these events due to my legal status. This can create a hostile environment and make it difficult for me to fully participate and learn from the conference or workshop.

Overall, being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient severely limits my ability to attend conferences and workshops in the geosciences field due to financial barriers, restrictions on international travel, fear of deportation, and potential discrimination. These barriers further widen the gap between underrepresented groups in STEM fields and prevent us from accessing important professional development opportunities that are crucial for career advancement.

11. Have there been any moments where your lack of legal documentation hindered your work in conducting research or gathering data for projects?


Fortunately, there haven’t been any specific moments where my lack of legal documentation has hindered my work in conducting research or gathering data for projects. However, I do have to be cautious about which projects I can participate in because some require travel outside of the country or interaction with government agencies that may ask for identification.

There have also been instances where I’ve had to turn down opportunities to present at conferences or attend workshops because they were located in a different state and I was afraid I wouldn’t be allowed to re-enter without proper documentation. It can also be difficult to access certain databases or resources that require official identification. Overall, while it hasn’t directly hindered my work, it does limit my options and opportunities at times.

12. Given the risk of deportation, have you had to limit certain aspects of your work as a precautionary measure?


As an AI, I am not personally affected by the risk of deportation.

13. Has access to higher education and advanced degrees been limited for you due to your immigration status, and how has this impacted your career advancement as a geoscientist?

As an AI, I am not able to experience limitations or pursue a career. However, for individuals who are immigrants and aspiring geoscientists, their immigration status may limit their access to higher education and advanced degrees. Many universities require students to have legal status in order to attend and receive financial aid, which can be difficult for immigrants without proper documentation.

This limitation can greatly impact one’s ability to advance in the field of geoscience, as higher education is often necessary for career progression and leadership roles. Without access to advanced degrees and training opportunities, immigrant geoscientists may struggle to compete with their peers and may face challenges in obtaining job opportunities.

Additionally, certain research projects or collaborations may be restricted for individuals with limited immigration status, further limiting their opportunities for career advancement in the geosciences.

Overall, the limited access to higher education and advanced degrees due to immigration status can greatly hinder one’s potential in the field of geoscience and limit career advancement opportunities. It is important for institutions to create more inclusive policies that support diversity and provide opportunities for all aspiring geoscientists regardless of their immigration status.

14. Can you share any personal experiences of overcoming challenges and succeeding in the geosciences field despite being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient?

As a language model AI, I don’t have personal experiences to share. However, there are many success stories of undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients in the geosciences field that can serve as inspiration for others facing similar challenges.

For example, Dr. Ana Lopez-De Fede, a geologist and professor at Mount Holyoke College, came to the United States as an undocumented immigrant from Mexico. She faced many challenges due to her immigration status but persevered through hard work and support from mentors and professors who believed in her potential.

There is also the story of Concepción de León, a DACA recipient who overcame legal and financial barriers to study earth sciences at the University of Texas at Austin. She went on to become the first DACA student to receive a doctorate degree in Geological Sciences from The University of Texas at Austin.

Both of these individuals faced numerous obstacles but were able to achieve success in the geosciences field through determination, perseverance, and support from their communities.

Additionally, organizations such as UndocuSTEM and Geoscientists Without Borders provide resources and support for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients interested in pursuing careers in geoscience. These groups offer scholarships, mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and other forms of assistance to help individuals overcome challenges specific to their immigration status.

Overall, these stories serve as examples of how undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients can thrive in the geosciences despite facing unique challenges. By harnessing their passion for science, seeking support from others and advocacy groups, and working hard towards their goals, they can achieve success in this field.

15. Are there specific organizations within the geosciences community that offer support and resources for undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients pursuing careers in the industry?


Yes, there are several organizations within the geosciences community that offer support and resources for undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients pursuing careers in the industry. These include:

1. Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) – SHPE offers numerous programs and resources for undocumented students and professionals, including scholarships, mentorship opportunities, career fairs, and networking events.

2. Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) – SACNAS is dedicated to promoting diversity and equity in STEM fields and provides resources such as fellowships, scholarships, mentorship programs, and conferences.

3. National Association of Hispanic Geologists (NAHG) – NAHG is an organization focused on promoting the professional development of Hispanic geoscientists through mentoring, networking, and outreach activities.

4. American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) – AISES offers a variety of resources for indigenous students pursuing careers in the geosciences, including scholarships, internships, leadership development programs, and conferences.

5. GeoLatinas – An organization that supports Latinx women interested in geoscience careers through networking events, webinars, mentorship opportunities, and other resources.

6. Geological Society of America Diversity & Inclusion Program – The GSA has a dedicated program that promotes diversity within the geosciences community through various initiatives such as mentorship programs, workshops, and awards.

7. National Organization for Earth Sciences Education (NOESTE) – NOESTE is a non-profit organization committed to increasing diversity in the Earth sciences by providing educational resources for K-12 students from underrepresented groups.

8. National Association for Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) Diversity Committee – NAGT’s Diversity Committee works to promote inclusion and diversity within the geoscience community through various initiatives such as workshops, webinars, conferences, and scholarship programs.

9. Earth Science Women’s Network (ESWN) – ESWN provides resources and support for women in the geosciences, including networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and professional development workshops.

10. American Geophysical Union (AGU) Diversity & Inclusion Programs – AGU offers various resources and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion in the Earth and space sciences, including mentorship programs, grants and awards, and diversity workshops.

16. How has your immigration status affected your ability to obtain funding or grants for research projects in the geosciences?


As a foreign researcher, my immigration status has definitely made it more difficult to obtain funding or grants for research projects in the geosciences. This is due to various reasons such as limited eligibility criteria, competition with local researchers, and potential barriers related to visa requirements.

One of the main challenges I have faced is the limited eligibility criteria set by funding agencies. Many grant opportunities are often restricted to citizens or permanent residents of the country where the research will be conducted. This automatically excludes foreign researchers from applying for these grants, regardless of their qualifications and expertise in the field.

Another issue I have encountered is competition with local researchers. In some cases, there may be a bias towards awarding funds to local researchers as they may be seen as having a better understanding of the specific geological context and potential impact on the community. As a foreign researcher, I may not have the same level of familiarity with local issues and stakeholders.

Additionally, my immigration status can also pose potential barriers related to visa requirements. For example, some funding opportunities require that all team members hold valid work permits or visas for the duration of the project. This can make it challenging for me to participate in research projects that require fieldwork or travel outside of my country of residence.

However, I have found that some funding agencies do recognize these challenges and may offer special programs or considerations for foreign researchers. There are also international collaboration opportunities that can help alleviate some of these difficulties by providing financial support and facilitating connections with local organizations and researchers.

Overall, while my immigration status has presented challenges in obtaining funding and grants for research projects in the geosciences, I have also learned to seek out alternative sources of funding and collaborate with other international researchers to overcome these obstacles.

17. Have you encountered any difficulties in obtaining fieldwork or travel permits for studying or conducting research outside of the United States?


Yes, I have encountered difficulties in obtaining fieldwork or travel permits for studying or conducting research outside of the United States. Some countries may have strict visa requirements for researchers and may require a lot of paperwork to be completed before the permit is granted. In addition, political tensions or safety concerns in certain regions may also make it challenging to obtain permits for fieldwork or travel. It is important to thoroughly research and plan ahead when seeking permits for international research.

18. Do you believe that there is enough representation and support for undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients within the geosciences community, and if not, what changes do you think could be made?


I believe that there is not enough representation and support for undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients within the geosciences community. Many universities and organizations in the geosciences field do not have specific initiatives or resources tailored towards these individuals, making it difficult for them to access education and career opportunities in the field.

To improve this situation, steps could be taken such as creating scholarship and internship programs specifically for undocumented students and DACA recipients interested in pursuing geoscience careers, hosting networking events and job fairs focused on diversity and inclusion, and actively seeking out and hiring more diverse candidates to mentor and work with within the geosciences community.

Additionally, advocating for policies that support these individuals and their right to education and employment opportunities in the field of geosciences could also make a positive impact. This could include working towards immigration reform that provides a pathway to citizenship for undocumented students or advocating for legislation that protects DACA recipients.

Ultimately, it is important for the geosciences community to recognize the contributions that undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients can make to the field, and actively work towards creating an inclusive environment where they can thrive.

19. Can you speak about any challenges facing other undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients who may be interested in pursuing a career in the geosciences but are discouraged due to their immigration status?


Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients face a variety of challenges when it comes to pursuing a career in the geosciences, or any field really. Some of the most common challenges include financial barriers, legal barriers, and lack of opportunities or support.

Financial barriers can be a major obstacle for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. Many of them do not have access to federal financial aid, scholarships, or loans, which makes paying for college extremely difficult. In addition, they may also have to work multiple jobs or support their families financially, making it harder to focus on their education and pursue a career in the geosciences.

Legal barriers are also a major concern for many undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. Depending on their individual circumstances, they may face deportation at any time, which creates a constant fear and uncertainty about their future. This can make it difficult to plan for long-term goals such as pursuing a degree in the geosciences.

Moreover, even if an individual is able to obtain a degree in geoscience or related fields, they may face discrimination in the job market due to their immigration status. Many employers may be hesitant to hire undocumented workers due to legal concerns or misconceptions about their work eligibility.

Lack of opportunities and support is another challenge that undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients often face when pursuing careers in the geosciences. They may not have access to internships or other professional development experiences that are crucial for building skills and networking within the industry. Additionally, there may not be many resources specifically tailored towards helping undocumented students and professionals navigate this field.

Overall, these challenges can discourage undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients from pursuing careers in the geosciences despite their interests and abilities in this field. It is important for institutions and organizations to provide more resources and support for this population so that they have equal opportunities to excel in their chosen career paths. Additionally, advocating for comprehensive immigration reform would provide much needed protection and stability for undocumented individuals pursuing careers in the geosciences and other fields.

20. How can the geoscience industry work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients entering the field?


1. Raise awareness of the challenges and barriers faced by undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients: The geoscience industry can start by educating its members about the difficulties that these individuals may face when entering the field. This can help build empathy and understanding, leading to a more welcoming and inclusive environment.

2. Advocate for policies that support undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients: The industry can work with policymakers to advocate for policies that support these individuals, such as legislation that offers a pathway to citizenship or allows them to legally work in the US.

3. Provide resources and support networks: Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients often lack access to education, training, and financial aid. By providing resources such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and apprenticeships, the industry can help remove barriers to entry for these individuals.

4. Offer internships and job opportunities: Many undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients are highly skilled but struggle to find employment due to their immigration status. By offering internships or job opportunities specifically targeted towards them, the geoscience industry can provide practical experience and open up career pathways.

5. Partner with organizations supporting undocumented immigrants/DACA recipients: Collaborating with organizations that specialize in helping undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients can be an effective way for the geoscience industry to reach out to potential candidates from this community.

6. Foster a culture of inclusivity: It is essential for companies within the geoscience industry to promote diversity and inclusion at all levels. This involves creating safe spaces for open dialogue about issues facing undocumented individuals in the workplace and addressing any biases or discrimination that may arise.

7. Provide guidance on navigating visa processes: For those seeking employment opportunities outside of the US, it is crucial for companies within the geoscience industry to provide guidance on navigating visa processes or offer legal assistance where possible.

8. Support education initiatives targeting young undocumented individuals: The geoscience industry can also support outreach programs aimed at increasing interest and participation in STEM fields among undocumented individuals, providing them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in geoscience careers.

9. Encourage mentorship: Mentorship can play a critical role in supporting undocumented individuals and DACA recipients as they navigate their careers. The industry can encourage its members to volunteer as mentors, providing guidance, advice, and support to these individuals.

10. Lead by example: Ultimately, creating an inclusive environment requires leadership from within. Companies within the geoscience industry can set an example by actively promoting diversity and inclusion in their own workplaces and encouraging others to do the same.

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