Students Discuss Federal Immigration Policy at Foothill College
Last week, students at Foothill College engaged in a timely conversation regarding federal immigration policy, focusing on how recent proposals for changes to student visas and work programs could affect their educational journeys and futures in Silicon Valley.
Impact of Proposed Visa Changes on International Students
This discussion followed a press conference held on May 27 by U.S. Representative Sam Licciardo (CA-16), which assembled students, educators, and community leaders to explore the implications of proposed federal immigration reforms. The conversation emphasized policies such as a potential four-year cap on student visas, delays in work permit renewals, and new restrictions affecting certain green card applicants—changes that attendees argued could significantly undermine students’ ability to complete their studies and plan for careers in the United States.
Personal Experiences of International Students
For many attendees, the conversation resonated deeply. Lightful Fong, a first-year international student from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, shared that her choice to study business economics at Foothill College stemmed from the opportunities available in the United States. She discovered the college through a recruiter in her home country and expressed gratitude for her experience thus far.
Concerns About Uncertainty in Immigration Rules
Students voiced their anxiety regarding the unpredictability of immigration regulations as they strategize for their education, internships, and future careers. A particular focus of the discussion was how federal immigration policy could influence students transitioning from high school to college, with Middle College students also participating in the event.
The Challenges Posed by New Visa Restrictions
Speakers, including Ricardo, argued that the proposed visa restrictions might hinder schools and employers in attracting and retaining international talent. The new “period of stay” policy aims to replace the existing system, which permits students to remain in the U.S. while completing their studies, with a fixed four-year limit for certain visa holders.
Impact on STEM and Transfer Programs
Foothill College President Christina Whalen highlighted that these changes could negatively affect hundreds of students, especially those enrolled in STEM and transfer programs that typically require longer completion times. She emphasized the vital contributions international students make to the academic and cultural landscape of the university.
Delays in DACA Renewal Applications Affecting Workers
The event also addressed significant delays in DACA renewal applications, which attendees indicated are impacting workers and families throughout the Bay Area. Yadira Aldana, a DACA recipient and health care administrator, noted that such delays have already led to some employees losing their work authorization prior to receiving their renewal permits, leading to uncertainty even when renewals are submitted early.
Linking Immigration Policy to Silicon Valley’s Workforce
Business and education leaders in attendance stressed the close relationship between immigration policy and Silicon Valley’s workforce and innovation economy, particularly in the fields of science and technology. Concerns were raised about how layoffs and outsourcing could affect both workers and students preparing to enter a volatile labor market. Following the event, students continued to discuss the implications of immigration policy on their studies and future employment, often forming small groups to exchange questions and concerns.
