By Edwardina Beeko
Baltimore Watchdog Staff Writer
Recent changes in U.S. immigration policies have placed a heavy burden on college students, particularly those who are international or undocumented. The uncertainty surrounding their legal status has led to heightened anxiety, affecting their academic performance and emotional well-being.
A study published in BMC Public Health found that international student enrollment in the U.S. began to decline in 2019, partly due to restrictive immigration policies and heightened uncertainty. The stress caused by these policies has led to increased psychological distress among immigrants, with a UCLA Center for Health Policy Research study revealing that recent immigrants experienced a 140 percent rise in serious psychological distress between 2015 and 2021.
Aureliane Tchamdja, 20, a sophomore majoring in computer science at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), expressed concerns about the unpredictable immigration climate. “Although I know legally, I have nothing to worry about, I have worried multiple times about being stopped by ICIE on campus and not having the proper identification,” she said.
This fear of law enforcement intervention adds to the anxiety students face daily.
For many students, stress directly impacts academic performance. Stecia Nazziwa, 19, a sophomore studying information technology at Towson University, said, “I was definitely drained to a point that it made it difficult to be fully engaged or in the moment.”
The ongoing uncertainty makes it difficult for students to focus on their studies. Daniel Mosuro, 20, a sophomore studying information technology at Towson University, said, “Students are constantly worried about protecting themselves and their families, making it hard to prioritize academics.”
Experts warn that these stressors can lead to severe mental health consequences. The Journalist’s Resource indicates that anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies have been linked to increased anxiety and depression among Latino groups in the U.S., including native-born citizens.
While some universities provide mental health services, many students remain unaware of the available support. As immigration policies continue to evolve, institutions must take proactive steps to ensure effected students receive the resources they need to succeed.
*Headline created by Co-Pilot AI