Impact of Immigration Policies on Undocumented Students at Cabrillo College
Over a year after President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration enforcement actions, undocumented students at Cabrillo College are increasingly hesitant to utilize campus services and financial aid programs due to fears of disclosing their personal information. University officials report a notable decline in student engagement and rising anxiety levels, even as institutions expand their resources to offer reassurance and support.
The landscape for undocumented students has shifted dramatically since President Trump initiated a stringent deportation campaign targeting an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants. This political climate continues to exert pressure on students, especially those seeking educational opportunities and support.
Adela Naranjo Bernabe, a teacher and counselor at Cabrillo College, highlights a marked drop in participation in programs designed for undocumented students. She has witnessed at least two students leave voluntarily, underscoring the impact of heightened fears among this population.
The number of undocumented students applying for financial aid at Cabrillo has fallen significantly since Trump’s presidency began in January 2025. From the 2023-2024 to the 2024-2025 academic years, applications decreased by 18%, plummeting from 209 to 171. This year, only 163 individuals have sought assistance, a worrying trend that reveals the depths of their anxiety.
“Many students are too afraid to ask for help, even when it comes to financial assistance, fearing it could affect their chances of attaining legal status,” Naranjo Bernabe notes. “They often express a desire to remain under the radar, avoiding any exposure of their personal information.”
New program coordinator Kim Leyva, who began her role in February, has also observed the pervasive anxiety among students. She commented on their concerns about the safety of their families and their uncertain futures, which contribute to their difficulties in focusing on their education amidst these challenges.
Omar, a Cabrillo College student, shared her experiences growing up in Watsonville as an undocumented immigrant who became a citizen. Despite her legal status, she remains apprehensive about the federal government’s targeting of even naturalized citizens. “One misstep could jeopardize everything,” she explained, emphasizing the constant stress that accompanies navigating daily life in this environment.
The DREAM Resource Program at Cabrillo College, established in 2016, was created to support undocumented students and those with family members lacking legal status. Despite ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which has faced numerous legal challenges and currently prohibits new applications, Leyva remains committed to ensuring that undocumented students feel supported and equipped to access available resources.
Amidst these challenges, Leyva emphasizes the resilience of undocumented students, who often face significant emotional stress due to the political climate. Cabrillo’s DREAM program provides essential services, from tutoring to legal assistance and financial aid. Leyva has been actively working to promote the California Dream Act application, a state program that ensures student information is kept private and distinct from federal agencies.
Furthermore, Leyva is spearheading new initiatives such as the Dreamer Service Incentive Grant, which rewards students for volunteer work. Students can earn up to $5,000 per academic year by working with university departments and local nonprofits. She aims to implement this program by mid-fall 2027, modeled after successful initiatives at San Jose City College.
Throughout this volatile period, Leyva reassures students that support systems and resources remain available at Cabrillo College. “We are here,” she stated, emphasizing her readiness to assist whenever students seek help. Leyva is dedicated to fostering a safe and accessible environment for undocumented and mixed-status students as they navigate their educational journeys.
DREAM Resource Coordinator Kim Leyva
Leyva is available Mondays and Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cabrillo College’s Watsonville Center, and on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Multicultural Student Center on the Aptos campus. She welcomes walk-ins and encourages students to make reservations. Her email is kileyva@cabrillo.edu, and both locations can be reached at 831-786-4724.
