University of California grad students demand a visa-fund as visa fears rise among African workers.
The Uncertain Future of International Students: A Call for SupportAs we navigate the complexities of higher education in a rapidly changing world, one group of students is facing an unprecedented level of uncertainty: international students. These individuals, who come from diverse backgrounds and countries, are not only contributing to the academic excellence of our institutions but also enriching our communities with their unique perspectives and experiences.
However, the current climate of immigration policies has created a sense of vulnerability among these students. The University of California (UC) graduate workers, led by Tanzil Chowdhury, a UC Berkeley doctoral student in materials science and engineering, are demanding a comprehensive support system to address the growing concerns of international students. Their union is pushing for a $750,000 legal assistance fund, which would provide critical resources for navigating the complexities of visa renewals, reentry, and deportation.
The stakes are high, and the sense of uncertainty is palpable. International students like Rahoul Banerjee Ghosh, a graduate student researcher at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, have never felt more at risk in their four years living in the United States. Banerjee Ghosh's story is a testament to the human impact of these policies: daily anxiety about losing legal status, being denied reentry, or facing deportation. The fear of being stranded overseas without a passport is a constant companion for many international students.
The UC Berkeley campus is not immune to this crisis. The university's international student offices are under strain, with advisors spending more time tracking rapid shifts in federal immigration policy. The funding for visa advising and support, which was previously allocated from student service fees, is set to expire after the current academic year. This leaves many students without access to critical resources and guidance.
But there is hope. The union's demands are not without precedent. In 2024, Johns Hopkins University agreed to a contract granting international teaching assistants up to two weeks of paid leave for visa renewals and established a fund to help cover visa costs. This model can serve as a blueprint for other institutions to follow.
The broader national picture is uncertain, with a 17% drop in new international student enrollment at U.S. colleges between 2024 and 2025. However, UC Berkeley's official fall enrollment figures suggest that the university may defy this trend, with an increase in the number of international students submitting intent to register forms.
The University of California already spends about $3 million annually on immigrant legal services through its Immigrant Legal Services Center. This investment is a testament to the institution's commitment to supporting its international students. However, more needs to be done to address the growing concerns of these students.
As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize the well-being and success of our international students. We must recognize their contributions to our academic excellence and community enrichment. By providing a comprehensive support system, including a legal assistance fund, paid leave for visa renewals, and reimbursement for visa-related expenses, we can ensure that these students feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
The future of international students is uncertain, but with collective action and commitment, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment. Let us work together to build a brighter future for these talented individuals who are shaping the world around us.
#Society #Immigration #Internationalstudents #TanzilChowdhury #U.S.internationalstudents #UniversityofCalifornia
