About the Undocumented Community Resource Center
Navigating higher education as an undocumented student can feel challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone.
The Undocumented Community Resource Center (UCRC) at Merritt College provides a safe and confidential space for undocumented, DACAmented, and mixed-status students and families. We are committed to fostering an inclusive campus environment where all students can thrive regardless of immigration status.
Merritt College is committed to supporting our undocumented students. We will not share any personally identifiable student information, including immigration status, unless legally required to do so by a judicial warrant, subpoena, or court order, or authorized by the student.
Through our Dreamer Liaison, the Undocumented Community Center (UCRC) can support you with:
Accessing State Financial Aid & Resources
Assessing Eligibility for State Financial Aid through the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) including assistance with completion and follow-ups
- Navigating the WebGrants4Students Portal for Cal Grant tracking and management.
- Exploring Paid Volunteer Opportunities available through the Dream Service Incentive Grant (DSIG).
- Finding Scholarships that do not require a Social Security Number
Free Immigration Legal Resources
Free immigration legal services referrals are available to all Merritt College students, staff, faculty in partnership with the East Bay Community Law Center (EBCLC)
EBCLC Immigration Legal assistance includes:
- Legal Consultations to Screen for Immigration Relief
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Renewals
- Family-based petitions
- Naturalization/Citizenship applications To book a free consultation, visit https://findyourally.com/
Proud Without Borders | Orgullo Sin Fronteras
Proud Without Borders | Orgullo Sin Fronteras is a student-led club dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space for undocumented students, those from mixed-status families, and allies.
Our mission is to foster community, expand opportunities for connection, and empower students through advocacy and support. Whether you’re looking to build friendships, share experiences, or access resources, our club is here to uplift and stand with you at Merritt College.
To stay informed about upcoming events and workshops, join our club interest form here! https://forms.office.com/r/vdkkpf6cdw
Meet Our Staff and Schedule a Support Appointment
We are so glad you are here! Get to know the staff dedicated to assisting undocumented and mixed-status students at Merritt College.
Our Team
Fernanda Castorena (She/Her/Ella)
Dreamer Liaison
Fernanda grew up in San Diego, CA, and is a proud first-generation college graduate from UC Berkeley, where she earned a degree in Sociology with a minor in Education. As the Dreamer Liaison for the Undocumented Community Resource Center (UCRC) at Merritt College, Fernanda is dedicated to supporting undocumented students by providing guidance on navigating college life, financial aid, and campus resources. Fernanda hopes to empower students by helping them recognize the power of community support and inspiring them have a positive relationship with their undocumented identify.
Fun Fact: When not working, Fernanda enjoys taking walks with their dog and discovering new hiking trails!
Book an appointment with Fernanda: https://calendly.com/mcrodriguez-peralta
Contact: mcrodriguez@peralta.edu | Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Iveth Lopez
HSI Academic Counselor
Personal bio
PICTURE
Book a counseling appointment with Iveth:
Contact: ilopez@peralta.edu | Office Hours: Monday / Wednesday (In Person) Friday (Virtual)
Sergio Castaneda
HSI Academic Counselor
PICTURE
Book a counseling appointment with Sergio:
Personal Bio
Contact: scastaneda@peralta.edu| Office Hours: Mondays (Virtual) Wednesday/Thursday (In Person)