Support Services for Immigrant Students in State Higher Education in Maryland

1. What types of support services are available for immigrant students in Maryland higher education institutions?


There are a variety of support services available for immigrant students in Maryland higher education institutions, including:

1. Cultural Centers: Many universities in Maryland have cultural centers that cater to the needs of international and immigrant students. These centers offer resources such as language support, cultural events and activities, counseling services, and academic advising tailored to the needs of immigrant students.

2. Office of International Student Services: Most colleges and universities in Maryland have an Office of International Student Services (ISS) that provides assistance with immigration-related matters such as visa applications, work authorization, and cultural adjustment. ISS staff also offer advising on academic and personal matters to help international students achieve success.

3. English Language Support: Immigrant students who need additional assistance with English can access language support services through programs like English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, conversation groups, writing centers, and tutoring programs.

4. Financial Aid and Scholarship Assistance: Many institutions offer financial aid packages specifically designed for international or immigrant students. They may also have scholarship opportunities for immigrant students based on their country of origin or other qualifications.

5. Mentorship Programs: Several colleges in Maryland have mentorship programs that pair immigrant students with current or alumni students who can provide guidance and support throughout their academic journey.

6. Counseling Services: Some universities have counseling centers that provide free mental health services to all enrolled students, including immigrants. These services can include individual therapy sessions, group therapy sessions, workshops on managing stress and anxiety, and more.

7. Support Groups: Some higher education institutions also offer support groups specifically for international or immigrant students to come together to discuss challenges they may be facing while adjusting to a new culture and share experiences.

8. Career Services for International Students: Career centers can assist immigrant students in exploring career options in the United States after graduation by providing resume reviews, interview preparation workshops, job fairs targeted towards international candidates, and more.

9. Advocacy Groups: There are various advocacy groups and organizations in Maryland that support immigrant students, such as the Maryland Immigrant Rights Coalition (MIRC) and the United Youth for Human Rights.

10. Legal Services: Some universities may offer legal services to assist immigrant students with immigration-related matters, such as applying for or renewing visas, obtaining work authorization, or connecting students with immigration attorneys.

2. How does Maryland differentiate its support services for immigrant students from those of other states?


There are several ways in which Maryland differentiates its support services for immigrant students from those of other states:

1. In-state tuition rates for undocumented students: Maryland is one of 19 states that allows undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. This makes college more accessible and affordable for immigrant students, who may not qualify for federal financial aid.

2. Financial aid for undocumented students: In 2011, Maryland enacted the Maryland Dream Act, which provides state financial aid to undocumented students who meet certain requirements, such as attending a Maryland high school for at least three years and filing taxes. This further helps make higher education attainable for immigrant students.

3. Specialized programs for English Language Learners (ELLs): Maryland has programs specifically designed to support ELLs in schools, including English as a Second Language (ESL) programs and bilingual education programs. These programs help immigrant students develop their English language skills while still receiving instruction in their native language.

4. Support services for newcomer families: Some counties in Maryland have specialized support services for newcomer families, including welcome centers that provide resources and assistance to help these families navigate the education system and community resources.

5. Cultural competency training: Many schools in Maryland offer cultural competency training to teachers and staff to better understand the needs of immigrant students and ensure that they feel welcomed and supported in the classroom.

6. Access to mental health services: Immigrant students may face unique challenges and stressors, such as adjusting to a new culture or dealing with family separation. Many schools in Maryland have partnerships with mental health providers or offer counseling services on-site to address these issues.

7. Collaboration with community organizations: There are many community organizations in Maryland that provide resources and support specifically targeted towards immigrant families, such as legal assistance, language classes, and cultural events. Schools often collaborate with these organizations to connect families with additional support outside of the classroom.

Overall, Maryland has a strong commitment to providing equitable and comprehensive support services for immigrant students, setting it apart from other states that may not have as robust systems in place.

3. Have there been any recent developments affecting the support services for immigrant students in Maryland colleges and universities?


Yes, there have been recent developments affecting the support services for immigrant students in Maryland colleges and universities.

Firstly, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was reinstated in December 2020, allowing undocumented students who came to the US as children to apply for protection from deportation and work authorization. This provides more opportunities for DACA students to attend college and access support services.

In addition, there has been an increase in resources and initiatives specifically designed to support immigrant students in Maryland colleges and universities. For example, several universities have established DREAMer-specific resource centers to help undocumented students navigate their education journey.

Furthermore, many institutions have also expanded financial aid opportunities for undocumented students through private scholarships or institutional aid. This allows undocumented students to pursue higher education without being burdened by excessive costs.

Some institutions have also implemented cultural competency and sensitivity training programs for faculty and staff, aiming to foster a more welcoming and inclusive environment for immigrant students on campus.

Lastly, there has been increased advocacy and activism from student groups advocating for the rights of immigrant students. These efforts have raised awareness about the unique challenges faced by immigrant students and pushed for policy changes that support their educational success.

4. How does the state government allocate funds for support services specifically targeted to immigrant students in higher education institutions?

5. What measures are in place to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of support services for immigrant students in higher education institutions?

5. Are there any initiatives or programs specifically designed to address the unique needs of undocumented immigrant students in Maryland higher education?


Yes, there are several initiatives and programs in Maryland that specifically address the unique needs of undocumented immigrant students in higher education. These include:

1. Maryland Dream Act: The Maryland Dream Act allows undocumented students who have completed three years of high school in Maryland and meet other criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

2. DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals): This program grants temporary protection against deportation and work authorization for eligible undocumented individuals who came to the U.S. as children.

3. Undocumented Student Resource Centers: Many colleges and universities in Maryland have established resource centers specifically dedicated to supporting undocumented students. These centers provide resources such as legal assistance, financial aid guidance, academic support, and counseling services.

4. Scholarships for Undocumented Students: Several private organizations and foundations offer scholarships specifically for undocumented students in Maryland, such as TheDream.US scholarship and the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) Law School Scholarship Program.

5. Supportive Campus Policies: Some institutions of higher education in Maryland have adopted policies that protect undocumented students from discrimination and create a safe environment for them on campus.

6. Advocacy Groups: Organizations such as CASA de Maryland, United We Dream, and Educators for Fair Consideration (E4FC) advocate for the rights of undocumented students and provide resources to help them navigate their educational journeys.

7. Mentoring Programs: Some colleges and universities in Maryland offer mentoring programs where undocumented students can be paired with faculty members or community mentors who can provide guidance, support, and networking opportunities.

8. Inclusive Curriculum: Some institutions have incorporated courses or workshops that discuss immigration policy, the experiences of marginalized communities including undocumented immigrants, and strategies for creating inclusive classrooms.

9. Counseling Services: Many colleges and universities in Maryland offer counseling services specifically tailored to the needs of undocumented students, addressing issues such as acculturation stress, navigating family expectations, financial stress, and immigration status anxiety.

10. Undocumented Student Support Networks: These are student-led organizations that provide peer support, advocacy, and resources to undocumented students on campus. Examples in Maryland include Terps for Dreamers at the University of Maryland and Socioeconomic Equality for Undocumented Students (SEEDS) at Johns Hopkins University.

6. Does Maryland have a designated office or department responsible for overseeing support services for immigrant students in higher education?


Yes, the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) has a designated office responsible for overseeing support services for immigrant students in higher education. The Office of Student Services and Outcomes works to increase access and success for underrepresented student populations, including immigrants. They provide support and resources to institutions of higher education and advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion for all students in Maryland. Additionally, the MHEC provides financial aid and scholarship opportunities for immigrant students through its Office of Student Financial Assistance.

7. What partnerships does Maryland have with community organizations to enhance support services for immigrant students in colleges and universities?


Maryland has several partnerships with community organizations to enhance support services for immigrant students in colleges and universities. Some of these partnerships include:

1. Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Partnership with American Immigration Council: MSDE partners with this organization to provide resources and training for educators, including information on immigrant students’ rights and creating inclusive school environments.

2. Montgomery County Collaboration Council: This organization works to improve the well-being of children, youth and families in Montgomery County. They partner with local schools and community organizations to provide resources and support services for immigrant students.

3. Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) Partnership with Maryland Office of Refugees and Asylees (MORA): MHEC partners with MORA to assist refugee and asylee students in accessing higher education opportunities in Maryland.

4. Baltimore City Community College (BCCC) partnership with World Relief Baltimore: BCCC partners with this organization to provide English language classes, job training, and other support services for immigrant students enrolled at the college.

5. University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) partnerships with various organizations: UMBC has partnerships with organizations such as the International Rescue Committee, which provides resources for refugee students, and CASA de Maryland, which offers immigration legal services for students.

6. Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) partnership with Maryland Immigrant Coalition (MIC): CCBC partners with MIC to create a welcoming environment for immigrant students by providing resources, advocacy, and support services.

7. Universities at Shady Grove (USG) partnership with Montgomery Coalition for Adult English Literacy (MCAEL): USG works closely with MCAEL to offer adult English language classes and career pathways programs for immigrant students.

These are just a few examples of the many partnerships that exist between Maryland colleges/universities and community organizations to enhance support services for immigrant studen

8. How does Maryland ensure that language barriers do not hinder access to support services for non-English speaking immigrant students in higher education?


Maryland has several measures in place to ensure that language barriers do not hinder access to support services for non-English speaking immigrant students in higher education:

1. Bilingual Staff: Many universities and colleges in Maryland have bilingual staff who can provide support services to non-English speaking students. These staff members are fluent in the native languages of the students and can effectively communicate with them and address their needs.

2. Language Support Programs: Some institutions offer specialized language programs or services, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, tutoring, and conversation groups, to help non-native speakers improve their language proficiency.

3. Multicultural Centers: Many universities and colleges in Maryland have multicultural centers that provide support services specifically for international students, including assistance with navigating cultural differences and overcoming language barriers.

4. Online Resources: Some institutions provide online resources for non-English speaking students, such as translated versions of important documents and information about available support services.

5. Interpreting Services: Universities and colleges may also have on-campus interpreting services available for non-English speaking students who need assistance communicating with faculty, staff, or other students.

6. Collaboration with Community Organizations: Some institutions also partner with local community organizations that serve immigrant populations to provide additional support services such as translation assistance or cultural competency training for staff.

7. Sensitivity Training: In some cases, universities may offer sensitivity training for faculty and staff to ensure they are aware of the unique challenges faced by immigrant students and how best to support them.

8. ADA Compliance: All public universities and colleges in Maryland are required to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which includes providing accommodations for individuals who may have language barriers.

Overall, Maryland places a strong emphasis on promoting diversity and inclusivity within higher education, which includes ensuring that non-English speaking immigrant students have equal access to support services.

9. Are there peer mentoring or tutoring programs available to assist new immigrant students in adjusting to the academic environment at Maryland’s colleges and universities?


Many of Maryland’s colleges and universities have peer mentoring or tutoring programs available to assist new immigrant students in adjusting to the academic environment. These programs are designed to provide support, guidance, and resources to help students succeed academically, socially, and culturally.

At the University of Maryland, for example, there is a program called International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) that offers various services and resources for international students, including a Peer Mentorship Program. This program pairs new international students with current students who can provide guidance and support in navigating campus life.

Similarly, at Towson University, there is a Peer Mentoring Program specifically for international students. This program connects new international students with experienced peer mentors who can offer advice on academic success, cultural adjustment, and social integration.

Other schools like Johns Hopkins University and Goucher College also have similar programs that facilitate peer-to-peer support for new immigrant students.

Additionally, many colleges and universities in Maryland have tutoring centers where all students can receive free academic assistance. These centers often offer specialized tutoring services for English language learners or specific subject areas where international students may need additional support. Some examples include the Writing Center at Salisbury University and the Academic Success Center at Bowie State University.

In addition to institution-specific programs, there are also non-profit organizations in Maryland that offer mentoring or tutoring programs for immigrant youth. The Latino Youth Conference run by Casa de Maryland is one example of a program that provides mentorship opportunities for Latino high school and college students.

Overall, there are many opportunities available for new immigrant students to seek support and guidance from their peers as they adjust to the academic environment at colleges and universities in Maryland.

10. Does the state provide financial aid or scholarships specifically for immigrant students pursuing higher education in Maryland?


Yes, the state of Maryland offers a variety of financial aid and scholarship opportunities for immigrant students pursuing higher education. Some examples include:

1. The Howard P. Rawlings Guaranteed Access Grant: This grant is available to undergraduate students who are Maryland residents, regardless of their immigration status. Applicants must also meet certain income requirements.

2. The Dream Act In-State Tuition: Eligible undocumented students who have graduated from a Maryland high school can apply for this program, which allows them to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in the state.

3. The Joseph A. Sullivan Scholarship: This scholarship is available to immigrant or first generation American students who exhibit leadership potential, financial need, and academic excellence.

4. The Roberta B. Willis Scholarship: This scholarship is open to non-U.S citizens who have resided in Maryland for at least two years and demonstrate high academic achievement.

5. Various scholarships offered by individual colleges and universities in the state may also be available specifically for immigrant students.

Overall, there are several funding opportunities available to support immigrant students pursuing higher education in Maryland, and it’s worth researching different options to find the best fit for your individual circumstances.

11. Are mental health counseling and other wellness resources accessible and culturally sensitive towards the needs of immigrant students at Maryland higher education institutions?


There is no simple answer to this question, as accessibility and cultural sensitivity can vary greatly between different institutions and programs within Maryland. Some institutions may have dedicated counselors or support staff who are trained in working with immigrant students and can provide valuable resources and support. Others may not have specialized services for immigrant students, but may still offer mental health counseling and other wellness resources that are open to all students.

In terms of cultural sensitivity, it is important for these resources to recognize the unique challenges and experiences of immigrant students, such as acculturation stress, family separation, and navigating a new education system. Culturally competent counselors should be sensitive to these factors and able to provide appropriate support and guidance.

It may also be helpful for universities to partner with community organizations that specialize in providing mental health services specifically for immigrant populations. This could help bridge any gaps in services and ensure that immigrant students have access to culturally sensitive care.

Overall, it is important for Maryland higher education institutions to continuously evaluate their mental health counseling and wellness resources in order to ensure they are meeting the needs of all students, including those from immigrant backgrounds.

12. What outreach efforts does Maryland make to inform and promote available support services to incoming international and foreign-born students?


Maryland has a number of outreach efforts in place to inform and promote available support services to incoming international and foreign-born students:

1) International Student Orientation: All incoming international students are required to attend an orientation program, where they are introduced to the support services available on campus. This includes information about counseling services, health services, academic advising, career centers, and cultural clubs.

2) International Student Services (ISS): ISS is dedicated to providing support and assistance to all international students at Maryland. They offer workshops, events, and one-on-one advising sessions on various topics such as cultural adjustment, immigration regulations, and student resources.

3) Multicultural Involvement & Community Advocacy (MICA): MICA provides programming and resources for the diverse student population at Maryland. They offer events and workshops focused on promoting cultural diversity and supporting the needs of international students.

4) Office of Undergraduate Admissions: The Office of Undergraduate Admissions has a designated team that works specifically with international applicants. They provide information about support services during the admissions process and guide new students through their transition to campus.

5) Social Media: Maryland University maintains active social media platforms where they share information about available support services for international students. This includes Facebook groups, Twitter accounts, Instagram pages, and YouTube channels.

6) Peer Mentoring Programs: Many departments at Maryland have peer mentoring programs in place for international students. These programs connect incoming international students with current students who can help them navigate the university system and provide guidance on available resources.

7) Campus Tours & Information Sessions: Maryland offers campus tours for prospective international students where they can learn about different aspects of campus life including housing options, academic support services, extracurricular activities, and more.

8) Collaboration with Student Organizations: International student organizations work closely with campus departments to promote available support services to their members. They also organize events and workshops focused on addressing the needs of international students.

9) International Student Blog: The Maryland International Student blog is a platform where current international students share their experiences and provide helpful information and resources for incoming international students.

10) Department Websites: Most departments at Maryland have dedicated sections on their websites that provide information about support services for international students. This includes links to resources, contact information, and frequently asked questions.

13. How does Maryland encourage diversity and inclusion within its campus culture through its support services for immigrant students?

Maryland encourages diversity and inclusion within its campus culture through its support services for immigrant students in several ways:

1. Multicultural Student Services: The university has a dedicated office for Multicultural Student Services that provides a variety of resources and support for underrepresented groups, including immigrant students. They offer mentoring programs, workshops, cultural events, and advocacy for the needs of these students.

2. International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS): The ISSS office at Maryland provides specialized assistance to international students, including those who are immigrants. Their services include orientation programs, immigration advising, cultural adjustment support, and other resources to help these students succeed.

3. Multicultural Coalitions: There are various multicultural coalitions on campus, such as the Latino/a Student Union and the Asian American Student Union, that provide opportunities for immigrant students to connect with their peers and celebrate their cultures.

4. English Language Institute: The university offers an English Language Institute program for non-native English speakers to improve their language skills before enrolling in regular academic courses.

5. Diversity Training Programs: Maryland offers diversity training programs for faculty, staff, and students to educate them about different cultures and perspectives. This helps create a more inclusive environment on campus.

6. Financial Aid Opportunities: The university offers financial aid opportunities specifically targeted towards immigrant students, such as scholarships for Dreamers (undocumented students) and other minority groups.

7. Counseling and Mental Health Services: The University Health Center has counselors who specialize in addressing the unique challenges faced by immigrant students and providing culturally sensitive support.

Overall, Maryland strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all its members regardless of their background or immigration status through various support services and initiatives.

14. Is there a comprehensive orientation program that addresses the unique challenges faced by immigrant students entering higher education institutions in Maryland?

As the state of Maryland does not have a centralized higher education system, there is no single comprehensive orientation program for immigrant students entering higher education institutions. However, many individual colleges and universities in Maryland offer orientation programs that specifically address the needs of immigrant students.

Some examples include:

1. University of Maryland, College Park: The International Student & Scholar Services office offers a variety of orientations and workshops for newly admitted international students, including an online orientation portal with resources on immigration regulations, academic expectations, cultural adjustment, and campus services.

2. Towson University: The Office of International Education offers an International Orientation Program to help new international students transition to life at Towson University. The program covers immigration regulations, cultural adjustment, academic expectations, and campus resources.

3. Montgomery College: The Office of International Student Services hosts a mandatory orientation for all new F-1 visa holders. The orientation includes information on immigration regulations, academic policies and procedures, campus resources and student life at Montgomery College.

4. Loyola University Maryland: The Center for Global Education provides a New International Student Orientation to help incoming international students acclimate to the university’s culture and community. Topics covered include immigration regulations, health insurance requirements, academic expectations, and cultural adjustment.

5. Goucher College: The Center for Race Equity & Identity organizes a Pre-Orientation Program for incoming first-year students from underrepresented backgrounds including international students. This program focuses on community-building and familiarizing students with campus resources to support their academic success.

Additionally, some colleges offer mentorship programs or peer-to-peer support groups for new immigrant students to connect with current students who have gone through similar experiences.

Overall, while there may not be a statewide comprehensive orientation program specifically tailored to immigrant students in Maryland, many individual institutions have specific programs and resources in place to support these unique challenges faced by this student population.

15.Are there any specific career development opportunities offered by state-level support services targeted towards preparing immigrant students for the workforce after graduation?


Yes, some state-level support services may offer specific career development opportunities for immigrant students. These can include:

1. Career counseling: Many support services have career counselors who specifically work with immigrant students to help them explore their career interests, set goals, and develop a plan for achieving those goals.

2. Internship and job placement programs: Some states may offer internship or job placement programs that are targeted towards immigrant students. These programs are designed to give students hands-on experience in their chosen field and help them develop valuable skills and connections.

3. Professional development workshops: Workshops focused on topics such as resume writing, interview techniques, and networking skills may be offered by state-level support services to prepare immigrant students for the workforce.

4. Mentorship programs: Some support services may pair immigrant students with professionals in their desired field for mentorship opportunities. These mentors can provide guidance, advice, and potentially even job leads to the student.

5. Language training: Many state-level support services also offer language training programs to help improve the English proficiency of immigrant students, which can be essential for success in the workforce.

6. Educational assistance: In addition to career-specific opportunities, some state-level support services may also provide assistance with college applications, financial aid resources, and other educational resources that can help prepare immigrant students for the workforce.

7. Cultural competency training: Some support services may offer cultural competency training workshops for employers to better understand how to work with diverse populations and create an inclusive workplace for immigrant students.

It’s important to note that available career development opportunities for immigrant students vary from state to state and depend on the specific resources and funding allocated by each state government. Immigrant students should research their individual state’s support services to see what specific career development opportunities are available to them.

16.How are cultural competency trainings provided to faculty and staff to ensure they can better support the diverse backgrounds of immigrant students in Maryland higher education?


Cultural competency trainings are typically provided to faculty and staff through professional development programs or workshops offered by the institution. These trainings aim to educate faculty and staff on the importance of cultural diversity, understanding different perspectives and experiences, and promoting an inclusive environment for all students.

In Maryland higher education institutions, these trainings may be organized by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion or other student support services departments. They may also be facilitated by external organizations with expertise in cultural competency and diversity training.

Some examples of topics that may be covered in these trainings include:

1. Understanding the needs of immigrant students: Faculty and staff may learn about the challenges faced by immigrant students, such as language barriers, financial constraints, and cultural adjustment.

2. Cultural sensitivity: Trainings may focus on increasing awareness and respect for different cultures, including their values, beliefs, customs, and traditions.

3. Inclusive teaching practices: Faculty may learn how to create a classroom environment that is welcoming to students from diverse backgrounds. This can include using inclusive language, incorporating diverse perspectives into curriculum materials, and promoting respectful dialogue among students.

4. Supporting undocumented students: Trainings may also address specific issues faced by undocumented students, such as legal barriers to accessing higher education and providing resources for support.

5. Interpersonal communication skills: Trainings can help faculty and staff develop effective communication skills when working with students from diverse backgrounds. This can include bridging cultural differences, active listening techniques, and fostering open communication channels.

Overall, cultural competency trainings provide faculty and staff with the knowledge and skills they need to better understand and support immigrant students in Maryland higher education institutions. By promoting a more inclusive campus environment, these trainings can help improve academic success for all students regardless of their cultural background.

17.Do Maryland’s policies and support services align with federal guidelines in providing equal access and non-discriminatory practices for immigrant students?


Yes, Maryland’s policies and support services align with federal guidelines in providing equal access and non-discriminatory practices for immigrant students. In accordance with federal law, Maryland prohibits discrimination in public schools on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, gender, pregnancy or pregnancy related conditions, language proficiency or immigration status.

Maryland also provides protections for undocumented immigrant students by allowing them to enroll in public schools and receive the same education and support services as any other student without taking into account their immigration status. This is in line with federal guidance from the US Department of Education Office for Civil Rights that states that all children, regardless of immigration status, have a right to attend public schools.

Additionally, Maryland offers English language learner (ELL) programs and services to help immigrant students improve their English proficiency and effectively participate in academic courses. These ELL programs are designed to comply with federal requirements under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and do not discriminate against students based on their national origin or limited English proficiency.

Overall, Maryland’s policies and support services prioritize equal access and non-discriminatory practices for all students, including immigrants.

18.Is there flexibility in academic accommodations for immigrant students who may face challenges with credit transfer or meeting certain course requirements?


Many schools and universities have policies and procedures in place to accommodate transfer credits for immigrant students. However, the specific flexibility may vary depending on the institution and their policies. Some schools may consider prior education and experience from the student’s home country when determining course requirements, while others may offer alternative options or placement exams to help with credit transfer or meeting certain course requirements.

It is important for immigrant students to communicate with their academic advisors and administrators about their individual situations and any challenges they may face. This can help ensure that appropriate accommodations are made and that the student receives the support they need to succeed academically. Additionally, there are many organizations and resources available to assist immigrant students with navigating the credit transfer process, such as NAFSA: Association of International Educators and World Education Services.

19.Has there been any evaluation or review conducted on the effectiveness of support services for immigrant students in Maryland higher education institutions?


A review of available resources shows that there has been limited research or evaluation specifically focused on the effectiveness of support services for immigrant students in Maryland higher education institutions.

One relevant study is a 2016 report published by the Maryland-Based Demographics and Immigration Students (MIBIDS) project, which examined the educational experiences and outcomes of immigrant college students in Maryland. The report highlighted the need for more targeted support services for this population, such as culturally sensitive counseling, language assistance, and financial aid resources.

In addition, some individual institutions in Maryland have conducted evaluations or assessments of their support services for immigrant students. For example:

– A 2018 evaluation conducted by Frostburg State University found that their Pre-College Institute (PCI) program, which provides academic and social support to first generation and low-income students, had a positive impact on retention rates for immigrant students.
– In 2019, Towson University conducted a survey to assess the needs and experiences of international students, including barriers to accessing support services.
– Montgomery College’s Global Refugee Center evaluates its programming each year through surveys and focus groups with refugee and immigrant students.

However, it should be noted that these evaluations are not specific to all immigrant students in Maryland, but rather focus on certain subgroups or programs.

Overall, while there has been some attention given to the unique needs of immigrant students in Maryland higher education institutions, there is still a lack of comprehensive research or evaluation on the effectiveness of support services for this population. More targeted studies could provide valuable insights into best practices and areas for improvement in supporting the academic success of immigrants in higher education.

20.How can incoming immigrant students learn about the available support services and integrate into the college and university community in Maryland?


1. Attend orientation sessions: Many colleges and universities in Maryland offer orientation programs specifically for incoming immigrant students to help them get acquainted with the campus, available resources, and the overall college community.

2. Connect with cultural or international student organizations: These organizations can provide a sense of community and support for incoming immigrant students. They often organize events, activities, and workshops that can help students network and integrate into the college community.

3. Utilize multicultural centers: Most colleges and universities in Maryland have multicultural or diversity centers that offer resources, events, and services for international and immigrant students. These centers also provide a safe space for students to connect with others who share their cultural backgrounds.

4. Join clubs and organizations: Immigrant students can also join clubs or organizations based on their interests or career goals. This is another great way to meet new people, make friends, and feel more integrated into the college community.

5. Attend campus events: Colleges often host various events throughout the year, such as cultural fairs, festivals, guest lectures, and workshops. Immigrant students should take advantage of these opportunities to learn more about different cultures and traditions while making new connections.

6. Meet with academic advisors: Academic advisors can help immigrant students understand degree requirements, create an academic plan, and navigate any challenges they may face in their courses.

7. Seek out mentorship programs: Some colleges have mentorship programs specifically designed for international or immigrant students where they are paired with a current student or alumni who can provide guidance and support throughout their journey at the university.

8. Take advantage of counseling services: Moving to a new country can be overwhelming; it is important for immigrant students to take care of their mental health during this transition period. Most colleges offer free counseling services that can help students adjust to their new environment.

9. Participate in language exchanges: Many colleges have language exchange programs where local students volunteer their time to help international students improve their speaking and writing skills in English. This is a great way to meet new people and improve language skills while learning about local culture.

10. Volunteer in the community: Immigrant students can also get involved in volunteering opportunities to give back to their new community while making connections with others who share similar interests.

11. Attend campus workshops and seminars: Many colleges offer workshops and seminars on topics such as adjusting to college life, time management, career planning, and study skills. These can be helpful for incoming immigrant students.

12. Connect with professors: Don’t be afraid to approach professors outside of class if you have questions or need additional support. They can provide guidance and recommendations for success in your coursework.

13. Get a part-time job on campus: Working on campus can not only provide financial support but also help immigrant students integrate into the college community by meeting other students and staff.

14. Participate in sports teams and intramural activities: Sports teams and intramural activities are a great way to make friends, stay active, and learn about American culture through sports.

15. Attend office hours: Most professors hold office hours where they are available to answer questions from students. This can be a great opportunity for immigrant students to build relationships with their professors outside of class.

16. Use social media: Colleges often use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc., to communicate information and events happening on campus. Follow your college’s accounts or join groups related to your school or program to stay informed.

17. Participate in international student orientation programs: In addition to general orientation sessions, many colleges offer orientation programs specifically for international or immigrant students that cover topics such as immigration regulations, cultural adjustment, academic expectations, etc.

18. Seek out peer mentors: Some colleges have programs that pair incoming international students with current students who have been through the same experience before. They can provide valuable insights and tips for navigating the college community.

19. Visit the campus career center: Career centers offer services such as resume building, job search support, and networking events that can benefit immigrant students in their academic and professional goals.

20. Attend cultural events off-campus: Maryland is a diverse state with a rich cultural scene. Immigrant students can attend cultural events in their local community to learn more about the traditions and customs of their new home away from home.

21. Take advantage of virtual resources: With the growth of technology, colleges in Maryland offer virtual services that give students access to resources such as online tutoring, webinars, library materials, etc., which can be particularly helpful for international or immigrant students who may not always be able to visit campus in person.