DACA Students FAQ
The information below answers some common questions that DACA students and others at the University may have relating to career and internship pursuits.
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I have DACA, am I allowed to obtain employment or internship experience?
DACA students with valid work permits are able to obtain work and internship experiences like any other student with work authorization. Becoming knowledgeable of the permissions of your status is important in order to educate potential employers on your ability to work for them. Our advisors at the Greene Center can help you learn more about how to communicate this effectively. You can make an appointment with one of them through Handshake.
Internships are one way to explore careers, gain professional development, and build career competencies. Although many formal paid internships require work permits, there are other alternatives to gain experience.
Internships for credit
Students may participate in unpaid (no monetary or material compensation) internships at certain organizations and get sponsored by faculty members or the Greene Center at the University of Rochester in order to get academic credit.Unpaid internship plus Summer Internship Funding
There is Summer Internship Funding and Summer Research Funding available to undergraduates in the College of Arts & Sciences and Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences (as well as students from the Eastman School of Music that are in a dual degree program). This can be used to support your cost of living expenses while participating in an unpaid summer internship. Please contact Rory-Stefan Affoon to discuss individual situations regarding funding possibilities.The Washington Semester
The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) in cooperation with The Washington Center, offers semester-long programs in Washington, D.C., that combine a credit-bearing internship with a course taught by faculty from area universities. Undergraduate students gain an immersive experience in professional fields, unique academic opportunities, and the chance to explore life and work in the nation’s capital. When students are accepted into the Washington Semester programming they register for classes at the U of R, but complete course and internship programming in Washington D.C. at The Washington Center. Students should talk with their advisor and let them know that they do not want to participate in any internship that requires a background check (some internships, especially those with the federal government, require a background check).Citation in Community Engaged Scholarship
This program combines academics and community involvement for students to build scholarships and address pressing issues facing communities. This is a great opportunity for students to get involved in the Rochester community while fulfilling credit requirements for graduation.Art New York
Art New York is a Spring internship and program of study in New York City that fulfills 16 credit requirements. This program provides an opportunity for students to experience New York City life while pursuing a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience. Participation in the program will enrich your understanding of the operation of the art world and offer insight into further study and career opportunities.The Ain Center for Entrepreneurship
The Ain Center provides a variety of academic and professional opportunities that support students with innovative ideas. -
Does applying for a job or internship put me at risk for legal action?
The answer to this question varies depending on factors such as who the employer is and what questions are asked in the application. It is strongly advised to be honest on an application about work authorization, as this may have future implications.
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Am I allowed to pursue internships/jobs out of state or outside of the US?
There are various considerations that students should be aware of when wanting to pursue internships or job experiences out of state or in the US. It is strongly advised that both DACA students do not leave the US as this risks re-entry into the country at a future date.
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Am I eligible for financial support from the University to pursue internships?
Summer Internships and Research Funding may be available for students who currently have, or can complete, an I-9 through the Student Employment Office – including DACA students. A stipend between $1,000 – $3,500 is allocated to students that go through the application process and receive approval. Please contact Rory-Stefan Affoon to discuss your individual situation regarding potential funding.
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Am I able to work after graduation?
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What other ways can I build career competencies and gain experience?
There are other ways that you can enrich your experience at the University of Rochester and become career-ready by building valuable competencies.
- Volunteering is a great way of gaining experience in different fields, deepening your connection to the community, and networking with people who can provide insights and contacts, which could lead to further opportunities. Learn about volunteering opportunities in the Rochester area through Volunteer Match or by joining a student organization dedicated to volunteering.
- Joining a student organization can connect you to people with similar interests on campus, provide opportunities for leadership, and help you become more involved with different causes and activities. Student organization affiliation and experiences can build skills, help you make connections, develop career competencies, and allow you to explore your interests.
- Take a class such as CASC 104 ROC Your Life (+ Your Career) and WRT 27x Communicating Your Professional Identity. These courses are focused on career development, exploration, and communication of the professional self.
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Who can I talk to about applying for internships/jobs and my status?
Advisors at the Greene Center are available to talk about pursuing internship and job opportunities, writing documents such as Resumes and Cover Letters, and navigating career resources. Most of our advisors have completed training and are aware of how immigration status can impact the job/internship application process. You can make an appointment with an advisor through Handshake.
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What resources/support are available to me as a student of the University of Rochester?
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