Research Study Overview

PURPOSE OF STUDY

The purpose of this interdisciplinary pilot study is to examine the paths to academic success of undocumented Latino students awarded in-state tuition through the recent Maryland Dream Act (SB167). This study is multilevel, examining political change, policies, and individuals. We will focus on university policies, support services, and individual undocumented students’ (in contrast to U.S.-born, Latina/o students who are the first in their families to enroll in college) psychological and academic functioning in public higher education in Maryland. We will also conduct one-on-one interviews with key university/college administrators who are implementing policies or providing support services for undocumented Latino students.

The information gathered from this study will help colleges and universities across the state of Maryland provide better services and supports to their Latina/o students and implement policies more effectively in conjunction with the Maryland DREAM Act.

This study is being funded through the University of Maryland Vice President for Research and the College of Education Tier 1 Seed Grant and has been reviewed according to the University of Maryland, College Park IRB procedures for research involving human subjects.