University Resources

Resources for Students Amidst Immigration Uncertainty

Navigating college life is challenging, and periods of change can add to the uncertainty. Policy and regulation shifts can directly affect students and their communities, making it essential to stay informed. Whether you or someone you know is affected by these changes, understanding available resources and legal rights can provide clarity and support. This resource page aims to share guidance, resources, and support systems available to Penn State students and community members.

Understanding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Policies:

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) falls under federal jurisdiction and is responsible for enforcing immigration laws. While policy generally advises against enforcement actions in sensitive locations such as schools, places of worship, and hospitals, there have been instances where operations have taken place near or within university settings.

As a public university, Penn State is an open campus, meaning that law enforcement, including ICE, has legal access to public areas, however not all parts of the university are unrestricted. However,  there are several resources on campus and within the community that individuals are encouraged to utilize. 

University and Community Protections

If you are concerned about immigration enforcement actions, it is important to know the safeguards in place:

  • Limited Law Enforcement Access: University buildings, including residence halls, require proper legal authorization (such as a judicial warrant) for ICE or any other law enforcement agency (that is not in partnership with the university) to enter . The university does not share private student information, including immigration status, unless required by law.

  • University Police and Public Safety (UPPS): Typically, University Police are notified when ICE is conducting operations in State College, but there is no guarantee they will receive prior notice. Penn State University Police do not proactively enforce federal immigration law.

  • Local Law Enforcement: Their focus is on community safety and they do not routinely cooperate with ICE unless required by law.The State College Police Department does not take an active role in enforcing immigration laws. 

  • Support from Religious Organizations: Local faith-based organizations and places of worship have historically provided sanctuary and support for those in need. Some clergy members have pledged to maintain private spaces for individuals seeking temporary shelter.

Support for International Students

  • Compliance with Visa Regulations: Students on F-1 or J-1 visas should ensure they are compliant with visa requirements, including maintaining full-time enrollment and keeping documentation up to date.

  • Penn State Global Programs: The university’s Global Programs office offers immigration advising, visa-related support, and assistance for students facing legal uncertainties. If you are unsure about your visa status or need help navigating immigration requirements, you can contact Penn State Global Programs (international@psu.edu) or visit their office in the Boucke building, room 410. 

  • Legal Aid for International Students: If you have concerns regarding your immigration status, you can seek guidance from Penn State’s immigration clinic, which provides assistance on visa compliance and other legal matters.

Protections for Undocumented Students

If you or someone you know is undocumented, it is crucial to understand your rights:

  • You Do Not Need to Disclose Your Legal Status: You have the right to remain silent and are not required to disclose your immigration status to anyone, including law enforcement or university officials.

  • Legal Representation is Critical: If approached by ICE, it is advised to remain silent until you have spoken to an attorney. Do not sign any documents without legal counsel.

  • Penn State Law’s Center for Immigrants’ Rights Clinic: Penn State offers free legal assistance to students and community members in need of immigration-related legal support. You can contact the clinic for guidance on your rights and legal protections.

  • Know Your Rights Campaigns: The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other organizations provide ‘Know Your Rights’ resources that outline what to do if you encounter immigration enforcement officers. Carry a Know Your Rights card (which UPUA will be distributing), which states that you wish to remain silent and request legal representation.

If ICE comes to Your Housing and You Need a Place to Stay

Housing Transitions (Centre House): 

Housing Transitions provides emergency shelter and supportive housing but does not publicly state a policy regarding ICE. It is not known to cooperate with immigration enforcement, but it is best to confirm directly.
Contact: (814) 237-5508

Out of the Cold: Centre County:

This shelter is low-barrier, meaning they do not require identification or proof of immigration status. Many community-run shelters do not voluntarily cooperate with ICE unless legally required.
Contact: (814) 852-8864

Youth Service Bureau – Burrowes Street Youth Haven Shelter

This shelter serves minors in crisis and is unlikely to share information with immigration enforcement. Policies vary, so it is recommended to check directly with the shelter.
Contact: (814) 234-2100

Additional Resources

Penn State Law Center for Immigrants’ Rights Clinic: Offers pro bono legal support for students and community members.

  • Penn State Global Programs: Provides resources and guidance for international students.

  • https://global.psu.edu/international

  • International Student and Scholar Advising (ISSA): ISSA serves as the authorized representative for Penn State's international community, offering expertise in advising, immigration services, and training. They can assist with visa requirements, financial matters, health insurance, and more. 

  • Student Legal Services 

  • Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC): Offers nationwide legal guidance and resources.

  • https://www.ilrc.org/

  • Trusted Legal Help In My Area

  • Know Your Rights Red Cards (Available in 9 Languages)

  • Immigration Preparedness ToolKit

  • Report Ice Activity In Your Area

  • Know Your Rights

  • National Immigration Law Center (NILC): Advocates for immigrants’ rights and provides important legal updates.

  • ACLU “Know Your Rights” Guide: This guide is available online in multiple languages to educate individuals on their rights during ICE encounters.

  • State College community updates in regards to executive actions

  • Protecting Student Data

  • Know Your Rights

  • Data Information & Protection Resources

  • Rights & Responsibilities, FERPA, Warrants and Subpoenas

  • Revising & complicating the sanctuary campus

  • Three Main Elements of Protection

  • What you can do right now at your institution

Local Legal Assistance

  • The Mazza Law Group, P.C.: Located in State College, this firm provides advice and representation on various immigration matters, including green cards, visas, asylum, and removal proceedings.
    -  mazzalaw.com

  • Contact Information: (814) 237-6255

  • Sharon Barney, Esq.: An attorney in State College specializing in immigration law, offering services such as family visas, asylum, and deportation defense.
    - justia.com

    • Contact Information: (814) 954-5904

DACA Specific Resources

ICE Specific Resources

Important Distinctions

Executive Orders and Presidential Transitions: https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IF/IF12724 

Special Acknowledgment

Special thanks to our campus partners for their assistance in compiling this list of resources! Please reach out the UPUA if you have any further questions or concerns, we are here to help you!

Justice & Equity

Justice & Equity

  1. Penn State Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

    • Oversees DEI initiatives at the university.

    • Contact: dfd5439@psu.edu

  2. Paul Robeson Cultural Center (PRCC)

    • Provides DEI programming, events, and services.

    • Located on the Ground Floor of the HUB.

    • Contact: prcc@psu.edu

  3. Multicultural Resource Center (MRC)

    • Supports multicultural students in personal concerns, study skills, tutoring, and outreach for scholarships/internships.

    • Located in 220 Grange Building.

    • Contact: mrc@psu.edu

  4. Adult Learner Program and Services

    • Offers support and resources for adult learners through advocacy, mentorship, and programming.

    • Located in 210 Boucke Building.

    • Contact: Leslie Laing

  5. Lions Pantry

    • Provides food and basic needs support to students facing food insecurity.

    • On Big Hollow Road near Lion Surplus.

    • Open Mon-Thurs during different times.

    • Contact: 814-865-0990

  6. Basic Needs Services

    • Offers support for basic needs, including food, housing, and financial assistance.

    • Located in 222 Boucke Building.

    • Contact: StudentCare@psu.edu

    • Basic Needs Request Form

  7. Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity

    • Offers educational resources, advocacy support, and mentorship.

    • Located on the Lower Level of the HUB.

    • Contact: lgbtq@psu.edu

  8. Gender Equity Center

    • Provides support for students impacted by sexual violence and harassment.

    • Located in 222U Boucke Building.

    • Contact: genderequity@psu.edu

    • Open Mon-Fri, 8-5 PM

  9. Office of Veteran Services

    • Provides support to military-connected students with resources and assistance.

    • Located in 100 Ritenour Building.

    • Contact: sdvas@psu.edu

  10. Office of Student Care and Advocacy

    • Aims to help students navigate challenges and provides consultation and direct resources.

    • Located in 222 Boucke Building.

    • Contact: StudentCare@psu.edu

  11. Student Disability Resources (SDR)

    • Coordinates support services, academic accommodations, and promotes disability awareness.

    • Located in 116 Boucke Building.

    • Contact: upsdr@psu.edu

  12. Center for Change and Social Belonging

    • Provides curricular and co-curricular support to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and accessibility.

    • Located in 204 Boucke Building.

    • Contact: socialchange@psu.edu

Academic DEI Departments

  • Agriculture Sciences: 230 Ag Administration Building

  • Arts and Architecture: 124 Borland Building

  • Bellisario College of Communications: 206 Carnegie Building

  • Division of Undergraduate Studies: (Specify location if available)

  • Earth and Mineral Sciences: 204 Deike Building

  • Eberly College of Science: 116 Ritenour Building

  • Education: 123 Chambers

  • Engineering: 112 Hammond Building

  • Health and Human Development: 20 Henderson Building

  • Information Science and Technology: E103 Westgate Building

  • Liberal Arts: 122 Sparks Building

  • Nursing: 301 Nursing Sciences Building, University Park, PA 16802

  • Smeal College of Business: 210 Business Building

Student Organizations

  1. Black Caucus

    • Umbrella organization for minority and Black students.

    • Provides support, resources, programming, and educational awareness.

    • Fosters community and friendship.

  2. Latino Caucus

    • Umbrella organization for all Latino organizations on campus.

    • Aims to provide support, build Latino unity, and foster community at Penn State.

  3. Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA)

    • Advocates and promotes diversity for the APIDA community.

    • Serves as the umbrella organization for APIDA identifying organizations.

  4. Indigenous Peoples’ Student Association

    • Community of Indigenous students, allies, and staff at Penn State.

    • Promotes Indigenous awareness, recruitment, programming, and retention.

  5. Middle East North Africa Caucus (MENA)

    • Umbrella organization for MENA-related organizations.

    • Aims to provide community to MENA students at Penn State.

  6. Lion’s Pride

    • Umbrella organization for all genders and sexual orientations.

    • Through programming, aims to provide a safe and comfortable space and foster communities.

  7. International Student Council

    • Serves as a resource for international communities at University Park and commonwealth campuses.

    • Promotes cultural awareness and uniting the international community.

  8. It’s On Us

    • Provides educational programming on topics including gender and relationship violence.

    • Housed under the Gender Equity Center.

    • Committed to preventing sexual and gender-based violence.

  9. Adult Learners at Penn State

    • Organization to seek support and educational resources for adult learners.

    • Through programming, seeks to provide a sense of belonging and community.

  10. Veterans Organization

    • Helps veterans transition from the military to college.

    • Provides resources such as awareness to scholarships, mentorships, and support.

  11. BLUEprint

    • Promotes peer-mentorship for first-year and change of campus students.

    • Aims to promote successful matriculation by providing professional and academic support to students.

Academic Affairs

Academic Affairs

Important Dates for Spring 2024:

  • Intent to Graduate - Activation Period: Tuesday, January 2 - Monday, January 22

  • Regular Drop Deadline: Saturday, January 13 at 11:59 p.m. ET

  • Regular Add Deadline: Sunday, January 14 at 11:59 p.m. ET

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday (No Classes): Monday, January 15

  • Final Exam Conflict - Filing Period: Monday, February 12 - Sunday, March 3

  • Spring Break (No Classes): Sunday, March 3 – Saturday, March 9

  • Late Add/Drop Deadline: Friday, April 5 at 11:59 p.m. ET

  • Declare Concurrent Majors, Minors, or Certificates Deadline (Graduating Students): Friday, April 5

  • Classes End: Friday, April 26

  • Final Exams: Monday, April 29 - Friday, May 3

Regular Drop vs. Late Drop:

  • Regular Drop (Deadline – January 13 at 11:59 p.m. EST):

    • Will NOT appear on your transcript

    • No fee

    • Course will NOT impact your GPA

  • Late Drop (Deadline – April 5 at 11:59 p.m. EST):

    • WILL appear on your transcript with “LD” in place of a letter grade

    • $6 Fee

    • Course will NOT impact your GPA

    • Visit your LionPATH account to drop a course.

Student Petitions:

  • File a petition with the University Faculty Senate to explain situations affecting academic experience.

  • Initiate a petition through your academic advisor.

  • Learn more about the petition process.

Key Student Academic Rights Policies include:

  • Senate Policy 42-27 on Class Attendance: Provides opportunities to make up work for students with approved curricular and extracurricular activities.

  • Senate Policy 44-20 on Final Examinations: Limits assignments worth more than 10% of the final grade in the week before Finals week.

Additional Academic Rights Policies:

  • Senate Policy 34-89 Course Drop: Allows dropping classes within the first six (6) days of the semester without penalty.

  • Senate Policy 43-00 Updates to Syllabi: Requires providing a course syllabus on the first day, including various details.

  • Senate Policy 44-20 Final Examinations: Regulates scheduling and grading of final examinations.

Other Academic Policies:

  • Senate Policy 89-00 Student Privacy Regarding Letters of Recommendation: Requires students to provide written documentation about waiving or not waiving their right to see recommendation letters.

  • Senate Policies 54-10 and 54-20 Good Standing & Academic Warning: Specifies GPA requirements for good standing and academic warning.

Additional Academic Resources:

  • Undergraduate Research and Fellowships Mentoring (URFM):

    • Offers programs like UGRJ, SPARK, and more to support research and prestige scholarship applications.

    • Learn more.

  • Workday:

    • Apply for jobs directly and view all on-campus job listings.

    • Access through Workday and learn how to apply.

  • Maker Commons (Pattee and Paterno Library):

  • PSU Libraries Technology & Equipment Resources:

  • Swank Movie Streaming:

  • News Readership Program:

  • Libraries Technology & Equipment Resources (continued):

Need Help? Reach out to:

  • ACADEMIC ADVISOR: Schedule an appointment on Starfish.

  • CAPS (Counseling and Psychological Services): Learn more on the CAPS website.

  • PENN STATE 24/7 CRISIS LINE: Text "LIONS" to 741741 or call (877) 229-6400.

  • LION LINK: Penn State exclusive networking platform for internship & job searching.

  • BANK OF AMERICA CAREER SERVICES: Utilize mock interviews, free professional attire rentals, and more.

  • Academic Accommodations:

    • STUDENT DISABILITIES RESOURCES: Get started by completing their introductory questionnaire.

    • Penn State Learning: Explore tutoring & group study sessions.

    • Learn about Academic Accommodations.

  • LinkedIn Learning Certificates:

Student Life

Student Life

Penn State Recreation

  • Office Phone: 814-867-1600

  • Email: campusrec@psu.edu

University Health Services (UHS)

  • Student Health Insurance

    • Location: 228 Bank of America Career Services Center, University Park, PA 16802

    • Phone: 814-865-4UHS (4847)

    • Email: uhs-insurance@psu.edu

Career Services

  • Phone: 814-865-2377

  • Email: AskCS@psu.edu

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

  • Phone: (814) 863-0395

  • Crisis Services (24/7):

    • Penn State Crisis Line: 1-877-229-6400

    • Crisis Text Line: Text “LIONS” to 741741

  • Contact Us:

    • Submit Confidential Information to CAPS

Health Promotion and Wellness

  • Phone: 814-863-0461

  • Email: promotinghealth@psu.edu

Basic Needs

Student Legal Services

  • Location: 204 East Calder Way, Suite 200, State College, PA 16801

  • Phone: 814-867-4388

  • Fax: 814-863-8138

  • Email: PennStateSLS@psu.edu

  • How to find our office: Directions

  • Intake Form: Submit Intake Form

Gender Equity Center

  • Phone: 814-863-2027

  • Email: genderequity@psu.edu

Centre Safe (Not affiliated with Penn State)

  • 24-hour confidential hotline: Centre Safe

    • Phone: 877-234-5050

Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity

  • Phone: 814-863-1248

  • Email: lgbtq@psu.edu

Sokolov Miller Financial Life and Skills Center

Campus Operations

Campus Operations

Fuel Rods:

  • Subscription Options:

    • $20 subscription: FuelRod kit and 12 free kit swaps at any Penn State-located kiosk.

    • $25 subscription: Six months with unlimited kit swaps at any FuelRod location nationwide.

Lyft Program:

  • University Park Students:

    • Eight $10 Lyft ride credits monthly for rides to campus from downtown and select neighborhoods (2 a.m.-7 a.m.).

  • University Park Faculty/Staff and Students:

    • Twenty $20 Lyft ride credits monthly for rides between campus, Mount Nittany Medical Center, and Innovation Park (7:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Sat-Sun).

CATABUS:

Campus Recreation:

  • Programs include aquatics, club sports, fitness, wellbeing, intramural sports, outdoor adventure, tennis, and more.

  • For more information, visit Student Affairs - Campus Recreation.

Bikers:

Sustainability:

  • Reusable To-Go Boxes:

    • Available through the Topanga program.

    • Students can sign up, check out, and return reusable to-go boxes as needed.

On-Campus Nutrition:

  • Menus:

  • Nutritional Information:

    • Count calories and calculate nutritional information using the same link.

Government and Community Affairs

Government and Community Affairs

Elections and Voter Registration:

Financial Aid:

Voter Registration Crash Course Presentation (2024):

OGCR/Lion Caucus:

Department of Transportation:

Digital Professionalism Campaign:

Last Updated: February 2024