“When I Would Hurt”: Undocumented Students’ Responses to Obstacles Faced during the College Choice Process

Abstract

Educational professionals would benefit from learning more about how the college choice process affects undocumented students’ health. In this study, we analyzed the experiences of undocumented students using the racial battle fatigue concept and identified psychological responses of intensified stress, a threatened sense of belonging, and increased uncertainties associated with their future. We found seven behavioral responses including increased self-rejection, isolation, and physical avoidance, altered educational plans, diminished motivation, and physical bodily harm.

Keywords:

• Undocumented students
• racial battle fatigue
• college choice