Support Services

The Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives (OAMI) serves as a space for undocumented and DACAmented students of all ethnicities and nationalities to find a safe environment and supportive community at the University of Michigan. Regardless of the situation, OAMI is here to help you transition to and succeed at the University of Michigan.

OAMI offers a range of support services to help you balance being a full-time student and handling other day-to-day challenges. These include personal one-on-one coaching, community and professional development, and more. Additionally, OAMI can provide resources to connect you to an encouraging peer network.

The Support Services page has a list of resources that you may find useful during your academic journey. If you cannot find what you’re looking for or if you have additional questions, we are happy to help you find an answer. You may contact Hector Galvan at the Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives via email (hgalvan@umich.edu) or via telephone at 734-763-0794.

University Resources

Student Community of Progressive Empowerment (SCOPE) is a student organization that strives to support and serve undocumented and DACAmented (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students at the University of Michigan. SCOPE provides an opportunity for undocumented students to connect with one another, build peer relationships, and work together to navigate their college experience.

SuccessConnects is a holistic support program focused on ensuring your academic, personal, and social success at Michigan. The program is designed to enhance the journey to a University of Michigan degree by providing opportunities to excel in the undergraduate experience and enhance the level of community inclusion, scholarship, and leadership success.

SuccessConnects provides opportunities ranging from networking and professional development to study skills and study abroad opportunities, while giving students a community of scholars and leaders amongst whom they can thrive. These are achieved through dynamic customized components, such as Success Coaching.

We invite all students to submit their information and get connected with SuccessConnects! Programming and support services are available for the entire academic year.

Please fill out the form below or email Hector Galvan, hgalvan@umich.edu, if you would like more information on how to become a SuccessConnects Scholar.

If you are a current transfer student or you’re a community college student considering attending the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan-Connect (M-Connect) is for you!

M-Connect is part of the SuccessConnects program in OAMI, and it gives you access to:

  • Guidance through the UM application process
  • Orientation to UM resources
  • Assistance in selecting classes that are transferable
  • One-on-one counseling at UM
  • Access to a mentoring program at UM
  • Access to group meetings and seminars that make your transfer smoother
  • Access to research opportunities

You will also benefit from networking with other transfer students before and after enrolling at UM. M-Connect gatherings provide the opportunity to build community and connect you with resources, as well as providing the support you need to successfully graduate.

Please fill out the form below or email Hector Galvan, hgalvan@umich.edu, if you would like more information on how to become part of M-Connect. If you completed the form found in the SuccessConnects Program tab, you don’t need to complete this one.

Please note that most University resources will be available virtually. This includes but is not limited to the following:

  • Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives
  • Counseling and Psychological Services
  • Career Center
  • Sexual Assault
  • Prevention and Awareness Center
  • Comprehensive Studies Program
  • Sweetland Writing Center
  • Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs
  • Center of Education for Women

Furthermore, if you are in need of services during this time, please contact Hector Galvan at hgalvan@umich.edu or by phone at 734-763-0794.

UofM COVID-19 Website

Public Affairs has released this FAQ page with information specifically for students concerning emergency aid, course grading, University housing, etc.

The university has activated its emergency call center to assist those with COVID-19 questions specifically related to U-M responses. It is available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at (877) 763-3040.

Personal Support

On-Campus: Maize and Blue Cupboard

The Maize and Blue Cupboard is here to provide an immediate and comprehensive response for the U-M community. By offering resources, educational opportunities, compassionate support, and more, we help students develop the skills to make informed decisions.

Michigan Food Banks

Each member food bank has a geographic service region in which they provide food resources to communities. Based on their region, some member food banks have supporting distribution warehouses. The member food banks and their supporting warehouses are able to take large donations of food. The local emergency food providers (agencies such as soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters) then “shop” the regional food bank or warehouse to acquire food to meet the needs for their own community programs and services.

Nationwide Food Pantries

Find local pantries, soup kitchens, food shelves, food banks and other food help across the U.S

Food Resource Finder

A resource to pinpoint areas providing food in the Detroit Metro area. Hours and availability vary by site.

WICIR

The Washtenaw Interfaith Coalition for Immigrant Rights is fundraising to support undocumented families in the Washtenaw County area who might find themselves in difficult situations during this moment of crisis. If you are in need of financial support contact the organization directly, their phone number is 734-355-2707. 

Support SE Michigan Undocumented Families

The funds will be donated based on a referral system via religious institutions, non-profit organizations, and community leaders who refer families for support. We are working on finding the most equitable and transparent process to donate the funds. We will follow the lead of undocumented community leaders. For questions email us at un.detroit.unido@gmail.com. 

If you are reaching out to make a referral, please DO NOT include names or contact information of undocumented community members in your emails. We will reach out to you for further information. 

Huron Valley Mutual Aid

This spreadsheet and form may help you if you are in need of a place to say, need storage space, groceries, or are able to provide to others in need, etc.

Michigan Community Mutual Aid

More general community resources for Michigan residents during COVID-19.

Community Economic Relief Fund

Please call 1-866 211-9966 and indicate your zip code. The Community Economic Relief Fund will provide a list of local agencies in your area that provides support (bills, rent, and food).

Dean of Students Office

Emergency Funding is available through the Dean of Students Office for students who are unable to meet immediate, essential expenses due to temporary hardship related to an unforeseen or emergency situation. Students may generally receive this assistance one time for up to $500.

Office of the Provost

Students may experience an emergency situation or one-time, unusual, unforeseen expense while in school. The University offers several types of assistance for students in such special circumstances.

LSA: Emergency Scholarship

The LSA Emergency Scholarship has always been a resource for students facing unforeseen financial challenges outside of their control. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, many students are facing upheavals that will drastically impact how they live, learn, and work in the coming months. We want you to know that the LSA Emergency Scholarship remains open to all LSA students who are facing extraordinary financial situations as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

CEW+

CEW+ is able to offer small emergency grants to current U-M Ann Arbor graduate students and undergraduate students. These grants, called Emergency Funds (EF), are for unexpected financial emergencies that threaten to derail degree progress including funding issues that are a result of COVID-19.

Office of Financial Aid Short-Term Emergency Loans:

A family emergency, loss of employment, natural disaster or another unexpected issue can suddenly change your financial circumstances. If that happens to you and your family, the Office of Financial Aid may be able to help with a re-evaluation of your financial aid package.

Rackham Graduate Student Emergency Funds

The Rackham Graduate Student Emergency Fund is intended to help meet the financial needs of Rackham graduate students who encounter an emergency situation or one-time, unusual, or unforeseen expenses during their degree program.

Free Clinics of Michigan

Washtenaw County Clinics:

Hope Medical Clinic, Inc.

Address: 518 Harriet St., Ypsilanti, MI  48198 | Phone: 734-481-0111 

Hours of Operation: Tuesday & Thursday 9:00am-5:00pm, Wednesday 9:00am-12:00pm & 5:00pm-8:00pm, & Saturday 8:30am-12:00pm

Hope Medical Clinic, Inc.

Address: 33608 Palmer Rd., Westland, MI 48186 | Phone: 734-710-6688 

Hours of Operation: Tuesday & Friday 9:00am-2:00pm & Saturday 8:00am-1:00pm

Chelsea Grace Clinic

Address: 603 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118 | Phone: 888-331-1174

Corner Health Center 

Address: 47 N Huron St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197 | Phone: 734-484-3600

UofM COVID-19 Website

UofM COVID-19 Testing

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

List of services and support created by Counseling and Psychological Services. It contains video resources, tips, resources from around the country, and much more.

My Strength: Free health and wellness app

Health and wellness app that is free with the access code: “DWIHNCares”

Mental Health Care Packages

Counseling and Psychological Services created a PDF full of ideas in hopes to share ways to help you take care of yourselves, no matter if you are in Ann Arbor, in Michigan, in the US, or across the globe.

Catholic Family Services 

Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County (CSSW) is committed to providing continuity of care while doing our part to help keep the community safe.

Several services will continue to serve clients onsite or through telehealth/telecare including:

  • Food Pantry
  • Behavioral Health Therapy
  • Domestic Violence Groups
  • Substance Abuse

External Resources

The Michigan Immigrant Rights Center (MIRC)

MIRC is a legal resource center for Michigan’s immigrant communities. MIRC works to build a thriving Michigan where immigrant communities are fully integrated and respected.

 

Legal Services of South Central Michigan (LSSCM)

LSSCM provides free civil legal advice and representation to low-income and senior citizens of Barry, Branch, Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Hillsdale, Ingham, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, Shiawassee, and Washtenaw Counties. LSSCM also provides legal services to senior citizens of St. Joseph County.

 

Michigan United

A coalition of over 100 organizations representing faith communities, labor organizations, businesses, and civil rights organizations fighting for social and economic justice.

 

One Michigan

Immigrant- and ally-led group with the mission to empower immigrant groups through education and information.

 

United We Dream

An organization that empowers people to develop their leadership, their organizing skills, and to develop our own campaigns to fight for justice and dignity for immigrants and all people.

Career Guide

Welcome! This career guide offers advice to continue developing and making the most of your University of Michigan experience. Its purpose is to provide insights on how to use in-class and out-of-class experiences to position yourself for future success, whether you are interested in securing internships, full-time jobs or admission to graduate school. Although some information may seem familiar, this career guide has content that may be new and helpful for your decision-making and planning.

Making the Most of Your College Experience and Preparing for the Future 

Employers and graduate school programs seek out individuals who can demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills, teamwork and interpersonal skills, initiative, and a strong work ethic. Through your classes (and academic projects) you will meet new students and develop a foundation for these skills. Additionally, student organizations, campus employment, and research projects are valuable opportunities that complement the skills you are developing in your classes. Summer internships, for example, can be an excellent way to test out a career field and develop marketable skills.

Below is the Career Guide, divided into three parts, devoted to propelling your career trajectory and contributing to your academic success. 

Why is experience important? Gaining experience is important because it demonstrates to others that you have tested your abilities in a variety of settings while in college. Your next steps after graduation will require you to contribute in new ways. You want to use your college years to actively engage in new opportunities  and to develop the confidence and skills that will prepare you for your next step. Developing skills happens in many situations. Take advantage of any opportunity to add to your skillset (e.g. critical thinking skills, communication, and technology applications are all skills that employers look for based on the NACE Career Readiness Competencies). Employers and graduate schools value diverse experiences; these experiences will help you demonstrate openness, inclusiveness, sensitivity, and the ability to interact respectfully with all people and understand individual differences. College experiences that may help you develop new skills and traits include, but are not limited to:
  • Internships
  • Research
  • Volunteering
  • Academic Projects
  • Professional Projects
  • Part-Time Positions
  • Student Leadership Roles
  • Student Organization/Membership
How do I find experience? The University Career Center (UCC), other career offices at UM, and other campus resources (e.g., Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives (OAMI)) help students identify experiences that satisfy their interests and provide opportunities to meet new people while forwarding the mission of the sponsoring group (e.g. OAMI- SuccessConnects Program, PSIP- Public Service Intern Program, ASB- Alternative Spring Break, and many more!).
  • To get started, you can make an appointment with a Career Coach/Advisor at the UCC or with the career services office within your school/college:
    • https://umich.joinhandshake.com/appointments/new/
    • Your conversation with a career coach may include talking about your interests, skills, values, challenges and past experiences. This will help narrow down the types of opportunities that you may enjoy and help you identify areas you want to pursue. Talking with career professionals will help clarify your goals and help navigate related experiences that are available.
    • This link will connect you to a list of career offices within the schools/colleges to learn more about what is available to students from the particular majors that they each serve, that complement the broad UCC offering: https://hireblue.umich.edu/career-services-offices
  • Search for opportunities on Handshake (UCC) and other job posting sites (individual schools/colleges). Handshake is the University Career Center’s exclusive job and internship searching tool (NOTE: Handshake supports Stamps Art and Design, School of Music, Theatre and Dance, and Michigan Athletics). You can learn about on-campus career events, sign up to participate in career programs (Immersions, Employer Challenges, Events), and access the national database of jobs and internships. The job posting section allows you to narrow your search by industry, position type, and location through the Advanced Search feature. There are thousands of postings, so considering what is most important to you will help you customize the list of opportunities. And remember, the UCC staff and staff in other career offices on campus,  are always available to help you through this process.
In addition to university resources, remember you also have a personal network that may offer you great suggestions to investigate. Think about your:
  • Friends;
  • Family;
  • Family Friends;
  • UM Faculty and faculty from previous institutions;
  • Mentors;
  • Alumni;
  • Coworkers and Supervisors (current and previous).
Even if you get one new idea, or learn of one new opportunity, it is worth tapping into those who may be connected on campus and/or in the world of work to gather new leads and information. Connecting with individuals who have gone through similar UM experiences and have navigated hiring processes with and without DACA will give you ideas and strategies for gaining experience and employment moving forward. You may begin by contacting the Undocumented Student Services Coordinator, Hector Galván, M.A. (hgalvan@umich.edu) who will be helpful in identifying potential contacts or tapping into other resources, such as population-specific conferences (i.e. United We DREAM). Some conferences have registration fees, but often offer student discounts or opportunities to volunteer which can significantly reduce the costs. What experiences are best? Any experience that broadens your skill set, employer network, and/or deepens your knowledge about a particular area is a great opportunity. If the experience is directly related to a career field of interest, you want to ensure that through the experience you learn about the field, the job functions, and skills necessary to be successful (especially teamwork, analytical and/or technical skills). Both paid and unpaid opportunities are beneficial. Think about possible career interests and related experiences that may help you clarify now how you would like to shape your career goals. If you find an unpaid opportunity, there any resources that offer financial support As a DACA college student, you may have questions about financing some opportunities. There are several resources on campus to explore the possibility of funding:
  • University of Michigan Office of Financial Aid (OFA): The Office of Financial Aid website provides links to multiple scholarships offered by the university, departments, private sources, with a section specifically devoted to DACA students: https://finaid.umich.edu/undocumented-students/.
    • Krissy Bhaumik (kbhaumik@umich.edu)- Associate Director, Financial Wellness, Advising and Eligibility Units is a key contact available to address your specific situation.
  • University of Michigan Undocumented Students Website: This resource has a section on funding that includes external scholarships for DACA and undocumented students: https://undocumented.umich.edu/funding/.
Connect with your School/College Career office to learn more about potential scholarships OR funding provided by your school for scholarships for unpaid internships.

Getting help preparing your application materials

When completing online applications, you will typically need a resume and cover letter. You are encouraged to make an appointment with the UCC or your school/college career center to get feedback on your resume and other related materials. The staff in these offices will be able to address any questions you may have about navigating the hiring process.

Will your status affect the application process?

As a DACA student, it is likely that you will first encounter this question when completing job applications: “Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?”

  • If you currently have DACA status, you are able to answer that question with a “yes” and move through the organization’s hiring process without needing to discuss your immigration status.
  • If you do not currently have DACA status or any other work authorization status, there will be a few stages in the process in which your status may come into question. These situations are discussed in the link below.

For information: “Life after College: A Guide for Undocumented Students,” published by Educators for Fair Consideration (E4FC).

Are you considering a graduate school program?  If the answer is “yes!”, be sure to tap into all resources available on campus and beyond—professors, advisors, career coaches, UM alumni, family and friends for help:
  • Assess your interests, values, goals, and abilities honestly and realistically;
  • Become familiar with types of degrees and degree levels;
  • Explore eligibility requirements, especially if your chosen field requires state/national licensure (medicine and other health professions; law, etc.);
  • Understand applicability, marketability and scope of the degree(s) considered;
  • Talk to people in the field, read about relevant issues, spend time with people in the professional settings that you wish to join;
  • Build a competitive profile, both in terms of academic and non-academic preparation (See the Getting Experience section of this document);
  • Practice articulating your reasons for wanting to pursue a degree by connecting your skills, personal traits, academic and life experiences, and professional interests to your targeted field
  • Investigate ways to finance your education;
  • Research schools and programs—understand program nuances;
  • Fully understand the application process, timelines, and mechanics;
  • Decide when and where to apply.
To meet with UCC staff to talk about if/when graduate or professional school might be right for you, schedule an appointment online at https://umich.joinhandshake.com/appointments/new/ or call (734) 764-7460. If you decide that your dream job requires education beyond your bachelor’s degree, research the types of programs that will meet your needs. For instance, what types of degree are there to consider?
  • Master’s programs typically require a 2-3 year commitment and they are geared toward increasing your knowledge and experience in a certain area (i.e., counseling, education, social work, and business).
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs  can last between 5-7 years and they focus on deeply increasing  one’s knowledge in a specific area. These degrees include research and teaching in academia (at a university-level) and prepare graduates to use this background in research and teaching in settings like college campuses, labs, government and/ or to use a particular skills set in an industry environment (i.e., consulting, data analysis, tech transfer).
  • Professional school programs prepare you for careers in specific fields and can range from 2-7+ years. Examples include but are not limited to: medical school (7+ years), law school (3 years) and higher education (2 years).
If you are considering a graduate program, begin by assessing your background on these additional factors:
  • Academic requirements:  Do you need to take certain courses to be able to apply?  What kind of GPA do admitted applicants have on average?
  • Entrance tests: Do you need to take a standardized test with your application materials such as the MCAT, LSAT, GRE, GMAT, etc.? When is the test offered and how can you best prepare?
  • Experience requirements: Does your chosen degree expect you to complete certain preparatory experiences such as working or volunteering in the field or shadowing professionals?  Do you need to provide a verified record of such activities?
  • Ally communities: Does the university you are considering have resources for DACA students? How easy will it be to find support on campus through a DACA Student Services office? What relevant student organizations are available?
  • Cost: How much would an advanced degree cost?  What kind of financial aid is available both in general and specifically for DACA students?  Which programs offer scholarships and/or assistantships to offset the cost of graduate school?
How might you pay for graduate school? In general, Ph.D. programs are more likely to be fully funded than Master’s programs.  Yet, there may be specific resources available to alleviate or offset the cost of attendance:
  • Fellowships/scholarships: Private and institutional scholarships may be available.  Check with the institutions that you are targeting about resources that may be available to students in general and to DACA students in particular since there may be restrictions with immigration status.  Educators for Fair Consideration have published a list of scholarships and fellowships (2017-2018) that do not require proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency: (https://immigrantsrising.org).
  • Assistantships: Many graduate programs offer assistantships, which will allow you to work on-campus as a research assistant (RA), Graduate Student Assistant (GSA), Graduate Student Instructors (GSI), or Teaching Assistant (TA).  These assistantships often cover tuition costs and at times offer stipends for living expenses. As an undergraduate student, you have probably worked with graduate assistants in your course labs or lectures. Be sure to look into eligibility criteria.
  • Private loans: Depending on restrictions with each banking institution, it may be possible to secure private loans.  Private loans often have higher interest rates, and should be researched carefully so the terms for repayment are fully understood. Larger loan amounts may also require a co-signer; however, some banks may allow you to take out a small private loan without an additional signer.
Do you have more questions? The UCC, as well as school/college career offices at U of M, offer a variety of services tailored towards planning for the next steps after graduation. Whether you are seeking employment or applying to graduate school, or pursuing a gap year experience, you are encouraged to make an appointment with a career advisor to discuss your future plans and to develop a strategy that allows you to you achieve your career goals.

Additional Campus Resources: 

This career guide was created in partnership with OAMI, the University Career Center, and UMSI Career Development Office, and it is supported by career offices within schools and colleges at the University of Michigan. Information was adapted from the University of California at Santa Barbara. This guide has been verified by University Student Legal Services and will be continuously updated to include the most recent information.