1. What inspired you to become a political scientist as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient?

There were several factors that inspired me to become a political scientist as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient.

First and foremost, my personal experience as an undocumented immigrant living in the United States played a significant role. As someone who has lived in this country since I was a child, I have faced many challenges and barriers due to my legal status. This experience sparked a strong interest in immigration policy and the political systems that shape it.

Secondly, growing up and witnessing firsthand the impact of US foreign policy on Latin America also motivated me to pursue political science. The United States has had a long history of intervention in Latin American countries, often exacerbating existing social and economic inequalities. This sparked my curiosity about international relations and the role of powerful countries in shaping global politics.

Additionally, being a DACA recipient introduced me to the complex world of immigration policy and advocacy efforts surrounding it. Through this experience, I discovered the importance of civic engagement and activism in promoting change at both the local and national level.

Lastly, the lack of representation of immigrants in policymaking spaces drove me to want to become a political scientist. Immigrants make up a significant portion of our population, yet their voices are often silenced or ignored in discussions about policies that directly affect their lives. I wanted to use my knowledge and skills to advocate for inclusive policies that address the needs of all members of society, regardless of their legal status.

2. How do you hope your work will impact other undocumented immigrants or those with DACA status?

I hope that my work as a political scientist will contribute to more inclusive policies that recognize the contributions and humanity of undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients.

Through research, teaching, and advocacy efforts, my goal is to increase understanding about issues impacting these communities at both individual and systemic levels. By shedding light on these issues through publications and presentations at academic conferences, I hope to elevate their voices in spaces where decisions about policies affecting them are made.

Furthermore, as a teacher, I hope to inspire and empower other undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients to pursue their education and engage in civic participation. Education has been crucial in my journey as an immigrant, and I believe it is a powerful tool for social change. By sharing my personal story and advocating for educational opportunities for these communities, I hope to break down barriers and open doors for others like me.

Additionally, through political participation and advocacy efforts, I aim to promote policies that provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and permanent protection for those with DACA status. It is my hope that my work will contribute to a more just and equitable society for all members of our immigrant communities.

2. How do you navigate the challenges of acquiring education and training in the field as an undocumented individual?

Acquiring education and training as an undocumented individual can be challenging due to various barriers such as limited access to financial aid, restricted employment opportunities, and potential discrimination. However, there are steps that can help navigate these challenges:

1. Research available resources: There are various organizations and programs that offer support and resources for undocumented individuals seeking education and training. Do your research to find out about scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid specifically for undocumented students.

2. Seek out scholarship opportunities: Scholarships can provide financial assistance to pursue education and training without having to worry about immigration status. Look for scholarship opportunities from private organizations or institutions that do not require proof of citizenship or legal residency.

3. Explore in-state tuition options: Some states allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates if they meet certain requirements. Research the laws in your state to see if you qualify for this option.

4. Consider community college or online courses: Community colleges tend to have lower tuition costs compared to four-year universities. Additionally, many offer online courses which can provide flexibility for those with work or family responsibilities.

5. Find support systems: It can be helpful to connect with others who are also navigating the challenges of being undocumented while pursuing education and training. This can be through campus organizations, online communities, or support groups.

6. Take advantage of professional development opportunities: Look for internships, workshops, seminars, or other professional development opportunities related to your field of interest. These experiences can help you gain valuable skills and knowledge without being constrained by immigration status.

7. Talk to a trusted advisor/mentor: Seek guidance from a trusted advisor or mentor who can provide advice on how you can achieve your educational and career goals despite the challenges you may face as an undocumented individual.

Overall, it’s important to stay informed about policies and resources that may impact undocumented individuals pursuing education and training in your area. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support and explore different options to overcome any barriers you may encounter.

3. How does your undocumented status or DACA experience shape your approach to studying politics and policy?

As an undocumented student or DACA recipient, my personal experience has greatly shaped my perspective on studying politics and policy. Growing up living in the shadows and constantly facing the fear of deportation has made me acutely aware of the power and impact of government decisions on the lives of marginalized communities.

My undocumented status and DACA experience have also influenced my approach to studying politics and policy in a number of ways. Firstly, it has made me extremely passionate about issues related to immigration reform, social justice, and human rights. I have seen firsthand how policies such as DACA can positively impact the lives of thousands of individuals and families like mine. This motivates me to learn more about policies that can create positive change and advocate for their implementation.

Secondly, being undocumented has made me vigilant about any political developments or changes that could directly affect my community. This constant state of uncertainty has taught me to be proactive in staying informed about current events and understanding the intricacies of various policies.

Additionally, being an undocumented student or DACA recipient has forced me to navigate complex bureaucratic processes and systems, such as applying for financial aid or adjusting my immigration status. This has given me a unique understanding of how policies are implemented on the ground level and the barriers that many marginalized communities face in accessing resources and opportunities.

Lastly, my undocumented status has instilled in me a sense of resilience, determination, and advocacy. Living under constant stress due to my legal status has pushed me to work harder, speak up for myself and others, and fight for social change. These qualities have translated into my academic pursuits as well, motivating me to excel academically while using my voice to advocate for marginalized communities through coursework, research projects, internships, and activism.

In conclusion, my undocumented status or DACA experience shapes my approach to studying politics by driving my passion for equity and justice issues while providing a unique background that informs my perspective on policies affecting vulnerable communities.

4. What obstacles have you faced in pursuing research or internships related to your immigration status?

As an AIAN who lives and works in the United States, I have faced several obstacles in pursuing research or internships related to my immigration status. These include:

1. Limited Opportunities: Many research and internship opportunities are restricted to U.S. citizens or permanent residents only, making them unavailable to individuals with temporary visas, like myself. This limitation significantly narrows down the number of opportunities I can apply for and hinders my chances of gaining valuable experience.

2. Ineligibility for Federal Funding: Most research projects and internships are funded by federal agencies, which often require participants to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. As a result, I am ineligible to receive any federal funding for my research or internships.

3. Additional Paperwork and Processes: As an international student, I am required to obtain work authorization before participating in any paid internship or research opportunity off-campus. This involves a lengthy application process that requires additional paperwork and fees, adding extra stress and financial burden.

4. Limited Work Hours: International students are limited to a maximum of 20 hours of work per week during the semester and full-time employment is only allowed during breaks. This limitation reduces the number of internship opportunities available as many require full-time commitment.

5. Language Barrier: Being an immigrant also means that English may not be my first language, making it challenging to communicate effectively in academic and professional settings. This can sometimes limit my participation in research projects or internships where strong communication skills are essential.

6.Marketable Skills: Due to cultural differences and variations in educational systems between my home country and the U.S., some skills or experiences that I acquired might not be viewed as valuable in this new context. This could make it difficult for me to secure certain research positions or internships.

Overall, these obstacles make it more challenging for me to gain relevant experience and build a strong resume, limiting my future career opportunities as an immigrant researcher or professional.

5. Can you elaborate on any specific research areas or policies that particularly affect undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients?

One specific research area that affects undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients is the impact of immigration policies on their access to education. Undocumented immigrants are often excluded from financial aid programs, making it difficult for them to afford college tuition and graduate with a higher education degree. This can limit their career opportunities and earning potential in the long run.

Additionally, the rescission of the DACA program in 2017 has hugely impacted the educational opportunities of current and potential DACA recipients. Many DACA recipients are able to attend college because of the protection and work authorization provided by the program. Without this protection, many struggle to continue their education or find employment opportunities.

Another research area is the mental health effects on undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. These individuals face high levels of stress, fear, and anxiety due to their uncertain legal status and living in a country where they may face discrimination and prejudice. This can have negative impacts on their mental health, leading to depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues.

In terms of policies, one important area is immigration detention policies. Undocumented immigrants may be detained for an extended period while awaiting deportation or during deportation proceedings. This can have a significant impact on their physical and mental well-being as they are often separated from their families and communities.

Another policy that affects these groups is access to healthcare. Undocumented immigrants are generally not eligible for government-funded healthcare programs, making it difficult for them to receive necessary medical treatment. Additionally, with recent policy changes targeting immigrant populations, many undocumented individuals may fear accessing healthcare services out of fear of deportation.

Lastly, research also looks at the economic impacts of immigration policies on undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. These groups often face limited job opportunities due to their legal status, which can lead to economic insecurity and poverty within immigrant communities. Studies have shown that providing pathways to legalization for these individuals could greatly improve their economic outcomes and contribute positively to the economy as a whole.

6. Have you experienced discrimination or bias from colleagues or superiors in academia due to your immigration status?

I have not personally experienced discrimination or bias from colleagues or superiors in academia due to my immigration status. However, I am aware that some individuals may face such discrimination and it is a real concern for many immigrant academics. It is important for institutions to promote diversity and inclusivity and address any instances of discrimination or bias.

7. How has the current political climate and policies towards immigrants affected your work and personal life?

The current political climate and policies towards immigrants have had a significant impact on my work and personal life. As an immigrant myself, I have experienced firsthand the fear and uncertainty that comes with constantly being under threat of deportation.

In my work, I have seen many of my colleagues and clients affected by the changes in immigration policies. Some have been forced to leave the country, while others have had to postpone their plans for obtaining citizenship or bringing loved ones to join them. The increased scrutiny and stricter enforcement of immigration laws have also made it harder for individuals to navigate the already complex immigration system.

On a personal level, I feel anxious and worried about my own immigration status and that of my family members. The constant changes in policies and rhetoric from the government create a sense of instability and insecurity. It is difficult to plan for the future when there is so much uncertainty surrounding your legal status in the country you consider home.

The political climate has also caused tension among friends and family who hold different views on immigration policies. I have had to navigate tricky conversations and try to bridge divides while still standing up for my beliefs and advocating for immigrant rights.

Overall, the current political environment has added stress to both my work and personal life. It is disheartening to see the rejection of immigrants, who contribute so much to this country’s economy, culture, and diversity. However, it has also motivated me to continue fighting for immigrant rights through my work as an advocate and staying informed as a citizen.

8. Have you faced any limitations in participating in academic conferences or presenting your research due to your immigration status?

Yes, I have faced limitations in participating in academic conferences and presenting my research due to my immigration status. As a non-citizen with temporary immigration status, I am often unable to obtain the necessary travel visas to attend conferences in certain countries. This limits my ability to present my research on an international platform and network with scholars from different countries.

Additionally, some academic conferences require participants to have certain forms of identification or documentation for registration and attendance purposes. As a non-citizen, I may not have access to these documents or they may be issued differently in my home country, making it difficult for me to comply with conference requirements.

Furthermore, attending conferences often requires significant financial resources for registration fees, travel expenses, and accommodations. As a non-citizen student or scholar, I may not have access to funding opportunities available only to citizens of the host country. This can hinder my ability to attend conferences and share my research with a wider audience.

Overall, these limitations on conference participation can hinder the advancement of my academic career and restrict opportunities for collaboration and networking with other researchers in my field. It is important for institutions and conference organizers to be aware of these challenges faced by non-citizen scholars and make efforts towards creating more inclusive and accessible spaces for all researchers regardless of their immigration status.

9. In what ways do you think being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient brings unique perspectives to the field of political science?

Being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient brings unique perspectives to the field of political science in several ways:

1. First-hand experience with immigration policies and issues: Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients have firsthand experience with the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. This personal experience can provide a deeper understanding of the challenges and realities faced by immigrant communities, and how different policies may affect them.

2. Understanding intersectionality: Many undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients come from marginalized communities that face discrimination based on their race, ethnicity, class, and/or gender. This intersectional identity gives these individuals a unique perspective on how different forms of oppression intersect and impact people’s lives.

3. Knowledge of multiple legal systems: As undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients navigate through their own legal status, they also gain an understanding of both U.S. and home country legal systems. This experience is valuable in analyzing how laws are formed, interpreted, and implemented in different contexts.

4. In-depth knowledge of different political systems: Many undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients come from countries with vastly different political structures than the United States. This exposure to diverse political systems can bring a global perspective to the field of political science, providing insights on governmental structures, policies, and institutions.

5. Personal stake in policy decisions: Being directly impacted by immigration policies gives undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients a personal stake in policy decisions that affect their community. This can drive them to stay informed about current events, engage with public discourse, and advocate for change.

6. Motivated by social justice: Undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients often have a strong motivation for promoting social justice due to their own experiences with injustice and inequality. This drive can contribute to innovative research ideas, advocacy efforts, and community organizing within the field of political science.

7. Diverse perspectives on citizenship: The concept of citizenship is at the core of many debates surrounding immigration policies. Being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient challenges traditional notions of citizenship and provides alternative perspectives on this complex concept.

Overall, the unique experiences and perspectives of undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients bring valuable insights to the field of political science. Their voices are crucial in shaping policies and promoting a more inclusive understanding of political systems and institutions.

10. How do you balance advocating for immigration rights with remaining impartial and objective in your research and work?

As a researcher and advocate for immigration rights, it is important to maintain a balance between remaining impartial and objective in our work while also advocating for the rights of immigrants. Here are some ways that this can be achieved:

1. Ensure that your research methodology is sound: When conducting research on immigration issues, it is important to use credible sources and rigorous methodology. This will help ensure that your findings are unbiased and based on reliable information.

2. Acknowledge any potential biases: We all have our own beliefs and values, which may influence our perspectives on certain issues. As researchers and advocates, it is important to be aware of our own biases and how they may affect our work. By acknowledging these biases, we can strive to remain objective in our research and advocacy efforts.

3. Involve diverse perspectives: In order to remain impartial and objective, it is important to seek out diverse perspectives on immigration issues. This can include consulting with individuals from different backgrounds, as well as incorporating a range of opinions from experts in the field.

4. Utilize data and evidence: Using data and evidence can help support arguments for immigration rights without being solely based on personal beliefs or opinions. This adds credibility to your advocacy work and allows you to remain objective in presenting information.

5. Focus on promoting policies rather than specific groups: Instead of advocating for specific immigrant populations or communities, focus on promoting policies that benefit all immigrants equally. This can help prevent bias towards certain groups while still advocating for change.

6. Maintain transparency: It is important to be transparent about any affiliations or personal biases when engaging in advocacy work for immigration rights. This helps build trust with stakeholders and ensures that your advocacy efforts are seen as legitimate.

7. Strive for fairness and balance: Make an effort to present both sides of an argument in a fair and balanced manner, even if you do not necessarily agree with one side more than the other. This approach helps foster open and respectful discussions and promotes objectivity in your work.

Ultimately, the key to balancing advocacy for immigration rights with remaining impartial and objective is to be mindful of potential biases, use evidence-based research, involve diverse perspectives, and strive for fairness and balance in presenting information. By approaching advocacy work in this manner, we can effectively promote immigration rights while also maintaining the integrity of our research and advocacy efforts.

11. Can you speak about any collaborations or partnerships with other organizations or individuals working towards immigration reform?

Yes, our organization has collaborated with several other organizations and individuals who are also working towards immigration reform. Some notable collaborations include:

1. We have partnered with several immigrant rights organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), United We Dream, and the National Immigration Law Center to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform and protection for undocumented immigrants.

2. Our organization has also worked with faith-based groups such as the Interfaith Immigration Coalition to educate the community on the moral imperative of welcoming and supporting immigrants.

3. We have collaborated with labor unions, such as the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW), to advocate for workers’ rights and protections for immigrant workers.

4. Our organization participates in coalitions like The Campaign for Citizenship, which brings together diverse organizations to push for a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.

5. We have also partnered with individual advocates, lawyers, and activists who provide legal assistance or lead grassroots efforts in pushing for immigration reform at the local level.

Overall, we believe that collaboration and partnerships are crucial in creating a unified voice for immigrants and amplifying our message to create meaningful change.

12. As an undocumented individual, how does it feel to be studying a system that may not include protections for people like yourself?

As an undocumented individual, studying a system that may not include protections for people like myself can be both frustrating and anxiety-inducing. It is disheartening to know that the system I am learning about may not recognize my rights or provide me with the same opportunities as others due to my immigration status.

I often feel marginalized and invisible in discussions and lessons about legal protections, as they do not necessarily apply to my situation. This can also lead to a lack of representation and a sense of being overlooked within the legal field.

Furthermore, it is difficult to fully engage in the subject matter when I am constantly worried about my own safety and security as an undocumented individual. With the current political climate, there is always a fear of being targeted or facing repercussions for simply existing.

Overall, studying a legal system that does not fully include or protect individuals like myself can be demoralizing and daunting. It serves as a reminder of the challenges we face as undocumented individuals in seeking justice and equality under the law.

13. Are there any areas of study within political science that specifically address issues facing undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients?

Yes, there are several areas of study within political science that specifically address issues facing undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients. These include:

1. Immigration Politics: This field focuses on the policies, institutions, and actors involved in shaping immigration policy, including policies affecting undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients.

2. Citizenship and Ethnic Minorities: This area examines how citizenship status affects the rights and opportunities of ethnic minority groups, including undocumented immigrants.

3. Social Inequality: This field explores how social and economic inequalities impact marginalized communities, including undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients.

4. Public Policy Analysis: This area looks at how government policies are created, implemented, and evaluated, including policies that affect undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients.

5. Human Rights: This field explores the human rights implications of immigration policy and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations such as undocumented immigrants.

6. Latino/Latina Studies: This interdisciplinary field focuses on understanding the experiences and perspectives of Latinx individuals in the United States, including those who are undocumented or have DACA status.

7. Political Mobilization and Participation: This area looks at how social movements and advocacy groups organize to promote policy changes for immigrant rights, including for undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients.

8. International Relations/Comparative Politics: These fields examine how immigration policies vary across countries and regions, as well as the impacts of global migration patterns on national politics.

9. State/Local Politics: This area investigates how local governments grapple with issues related to immigration policy, including providing services to undocumented immigrants.

10.Divisional Politics/Demographic Change: This field examines how demographic changes – such as increasing numbers of Hispanic-Americans or migrants – affect electoral politics at different levels of government.

14. In what ways do legal barriers, such as not being able to vote, impact your ability to actively engage in the political process as a political scientist?

As a political scientist, legal barriers such as not being able to vote can impact my ability to actively engage in the political process in several ways:

1. Limited avenues for participation: Not being able to vote means that I cannot directly participate in the most fundamental democratic process – electing my representatives. This limits my ability to actively engage with the political system and have a say in the decision-making processes.

2. Difficulty in conducting research: As a political scientist, it is important for me to understand the perspectives and opinions of different demographics and understand how they shape political behavior. Without being able to vote, I may face difficulties in conducting research on voter behavior and attitudes towards elections.

3. Inability to influence policies: Voting is not just about electing representatives; it is also a way for citizens to express their opinions and preferences regarding policies and issues. As someone who cannot vote, I may not have a direct say in shaping policies that affect me.

4. Limitations in advocating for change: Political scientists often aim to influence policy decisions and bring about meaningful change through advocacy and activism. However, not being able to vote may limit my ability to effectively advocate for issues or candidates that align with my beliefs.

5. Perceived lack of credibility: In some cases, not being able to vote may be perceived as lacking credibility or stake in the political process by other researchers or policymakers. This could impact my ability to be taken seriously as a political scientist.

6. Barrier for career advancement: In some academic or research positions, eligibility to vote is considered as an essential criterion for selection or promotion. Not being able to meet this requirement could limit my career prospects as a political scientist.

Ultimately, legal barriers such as not being able to vote can significantly hinder the active engagement of a political scientist in the political process, limiting their contributions towards promoting informed decision-making and shaping public policy.

15. Can you share any experiences where your knowledge of both US politics and immigration law has been beneficial in helping others navigate their own situations as immigrants?

There have been numerous instances where my knowledge of both US politics and immigration law has been beneficial in helping others navigate their own situations as immigrants. One particular experience that stands out to me was when I had a client who was facing deportation due to a criminal charge.

My client’s case was complicated because the laws around immigration and crime are constantly changing, and there were conflicting views among lawmakers at the time. However, my understanding of current political climate and legislation allowed me to successfully argue for my client’s case, using specific legal arguments and examples from recent political events.

Furthermore, I also used my knowledge of immigration law to carefully examine my client’s case and identify potential ways to mitigate the charges against him. With this approach, we were able to negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges and ultimately secure a resolution that allowed my client to stay in the country with his family.

In addition, I utilized my understanding of how changes in policies and procedures can impact individual cases. In this instance, I was able to advise my client on how he could potentially benefit from recent updates in immigration policies related to his situation.

Overall, navigating immigration issues requires not only a deep understanding of legal processes but also an awareness of the ever-changing political landscape. By combining these two areas of expertise, I am able to provide effective support and guidance for individuals facing complex immigration challenges.

16. On a personal level, how has being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient intersected with your cultural identity and sense of belonging in America’s political landscape?

Being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient has greatly affected my sense of cultural identity and belonging in America’s political landscape. Growing up, I often felt like I had to hide a part of myself and my family’s experiences in order to fit in with my friends and classmates who were citizens. This sense of shame and fear of being discovered as undocumented caused me to feel disconnected from my cultural heritage and community.

However, as I grew older and began to understand the complexities of immigration policy and the reality of being undocumented, I became more proud of my cultural identity and heritage. Being a DACA recipient has only strengthened this pride, as it has allowed me to openly identify as an undocumented immigrant without fear of deportation.

At the same time, being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient has also made me feel like an outsider in American society. The constant threat of losing my legal status and the discrimination that comes with being undocumented has made it difficult for me to fully assimilate into American culture. This has also been exacerbated by the political rhetoric surrounding immigration, which often portrays immigrants like myself as criminals or a burden on society.

Additionally, being a DACA recipient means living with uncertainty about my future in this country. This has created a constant feeling of limbo, not quite belonging in either my country of birth or the U.S., which can be emotionally taxing.

Despite these challenges, being an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient has also helped me develop a strong sense of resilience and determination. My experiences have shaped me into a more compassionate and empathetic person, and have motivated me to fight for change both within myself and in our society’s attitudes towards immigration. Overall, while it may be difficult at times, I am incredibly proud of my cultural identity and will continue to navigate America’s political landscape with hope for a better future for all immigrants.

17. How do you think current immigration policies, such as DACA, will shape the future of America and impact your work as a political scientist?

Immigration policies, including DACA, have a significant impact on both the future of America and the work of political scientists. From a policy perspective, these policies will shape the demographic makeup of the country and potentially impact economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural diversity.

From a political science perspective, studying immigration is critical for understanding political behavior and policymaking. Immigration issues can shape public opinion and decision-making by government officials at all levels. For example, DACA has been at the center of heated debates over the past few years and has influenced electoral politics, as well as policy decisions at the state and federal level.

As a political scientist, my research focuses on the intersection of immigration policy and public opinion. The current debate surrounding DACA highlights important questions about democratic citizenship, representation, and identity politics that are central to my work. My research also explores how immigration policies affect different groups in society (e.g., immigrants from different countries or with varying legal status), which is becoming increasingly relevant in light of recent changes to U.S. immigration policy.

Ultimately, it is essential for political scientists to continue studying immigration policies and their effects on American society in order to inform policymakers and promote evidence-based solutions that can benefit all members of our diverse society.

18. Can you speak to the emotional toll of constantly facing uncertainty and fear as an undocumented individual in academia and in society?

As an AI, I do not experience emotions the same way humans do. However, based on what I have read and been programmed to understand, constantly facing uncertainty and fear as an undocumented individual can take a severe emotional toll. The fear of being deported or separated from loved ones can cause constant anxiety and stress. The uncertainty of not knowing if one’s status will change can make it difficult to plan for the future and may cause feelings of hopelessness. In an academic setting, the fear of being discovered as undocumented may also lead to discrimination and exclusion, which can be emotionally draining.

On a larger societal level, undocumented individuals face constant scrutiny and negative stereotypes, which can lead to feelings of insecurity and lack of belonging. This can also have an impact on mental health and well-being.

Overall, the emotional toll of being an undocumented individual in academia and society is significant and cannot be underestimated. It is important for those in positions of privilege to advocate for policies that support and protect this community, as well as creating inclusive spaces where they feel safe and supported.

19. As someone living with the constant threat of deportation, how has your personal safety been affected by your involvement in political advocacy work?

My personal safety has been significantly affected by my involvement in political advocacy work. As an undocumented immigrant, I am constantly at risk of being detained and deported. By publicly speaking out against policies and actions that target immigrants and endanger our communities, I have made myself a target for retribution from government agencies or individuals who may be anti-immigrant.

I have received threats of violence and hate messages online for voicing my opinions and standing up for the rights of immigrants. This has caused me to be more cautious about what I share on social media and where I go in public. I am always aware of my surroundings and who is around me, as I never know if someone might try to harm me because of my activism.

In addition to physical safety, my mental health has also been impacted by the constant fear of deportation. Knowing that any day could be the day that ICE comes knocking on my door creates a significant amount of stress and anxiety. It is a constant weight on my shoulders and affects every aspect of my life.

Despite these challenges, I refuse to be silenced or stop fighting for justice for myself and all undocumented immigrants. It is worth the risks to speak out and advocate for our rights as human beings.

20. What message would you like to send to other undocumented immigrants or DACA recipients who are interested in pursuing a career in political science?

I would like to encourage all undocumented immigrants and DACA recipients who are interested in political science to pursue their dreams without hesitation. As an undocumented immigrant myself, I know how daunting and difficult it can be to navigate the higher education system and career options. However, I want you to know that your immigration status does not define you or limit your potential.

Political science is a field that is dedicated to understanding systems of power and advocating for change. And who better to understand these complex systems than those who have experienced their effects firsthand? Your unique perspective as an undocumented immigrant or DACA recipient can bring valuable insights and solutions to important political issues.

There will undoubtedly be challenges along the way, but do not let them discourage you. Seek out resources and support from organizations and individuals who are dedicated to helping undocumented students succeed in academics and beyond. Keep informed about policy changes that may affect your status, but never let them deter you from chasing your goals.

Most importantly, always remember that your voice matters. There are currently more than 700,000 DACA recipients in the United States, and millions more undocumented immigrants who are part of our communities. Our experiences and perspectives deserve to be heard and represented in the political sphere.

So do not be afraid to pursue a career in political science or any other field that interests you – your future is limitless! We need more representation from diverse backgrounds in government and policymaking, so keep striving for your dreams and make your impact in the world!