“In such a large university of almost 40,000 students, I initially felt intimidated to go out of my comfort zone and ask for help. But after being introduced to a small community of 400 students that came from similar underrepresented backgrounds as myself, I felt like I was no different from someone else. After all, we were together for a reason. The university staff saw potential in us and wanted to give us the privilege of starting ahead. I wasn’t even starting my first semester of college and I already felt like I was making an impact. Learning about socioeconomic injustice in my classes transformed into an educator to my peers.”

“For once in my life I am in a safe space where I can speak freely about what it means to be undocumented and learn how I can better support myself and my family. Not knowing what the next day brings you and your family is one of the most crippling aspects of being an undocumented student. But now I know I have resources, now I know I have allies and a community who will support me, now I know I belong”

“Textbooks are ridiculously expensive! I used to have to choose between groceries for the month or books. I always chose books and had to search for meals during the beginning of the semester, the stress of having nothing eat sometimes impaired my ability to even read the books I saved for. The dream lending library has helped me to finally be able to access the basics and be healthy and still succeed as a student.”

“I work hard to earn a good GPA, I volunteer, I give what I can back to others who have less than me, and despite my legal status I uphold my responsibilities as a member of society. I will become a doctor and work at a community clinic back in Richmond. The legal assistance provided by USP has enabled me to be who I am and fight for my future, without them I wouldn’t have DACA and wouldn’t have my summer medical internship”

“I do my best finding odd work in restaurants and save every penny but when a life emergency needs its money, it can’t wait. The emergency grant helped me pay for my rent when I have no other options. USP taught me that I am not the only one who believes in my potential.”

“I was scared to go to college because I was scared that I was going to be discriminated against. I knew that I could not get federal money to help me. When I participated in Summer Bridge, it was an amazing experience that shaped both me as a person and also my world. The USP program connected me with helpful counselors that cared about my well being. And I was so grateful that there were students who were like me. USP itself gave me hope that I am not going to go through this college journey alone. Without this program, I would not be at the level of academic excellence and personal well-being I am today. The USP program has always and will always be there for me.”