Undocumented College Students Worry About Job Opportunities
OKLAHOMA CITY
More than 200 undocumented college students are attending college at in-state tuition rates in Oklahoma, but many fear they will be unable to find work when they graduate.
While states can help undocumented students go to college, it will take an act of Congress to let them work legally. And an increasingly vocal anti-immigration lobby will fight to keep that from happening.
The Oklahoma Legislature passed a law in 2003 that allows noncitizens to qualify for in-state tuition, scholarships and financial aid.
“The fact is, they are still undocumented,” says Armando Pena, director for student and community outreach activities for the State Regents for Higher Education. “To be frank, I think it was not fully considered.”
When Antonio Martinez enrolled at Oklahoma Panhandle State University two years ago on an art scholarship, it looked like his problems were over.
Now, as he begins his junior year, the 21-year-old Mexican immigrant wonders what will happen if he doesn’t have permanent residency when he graduates in May 2007. He wants to find a job as a graphics designer but fears employers might shun him — even though he has temporary residency and a work permit, which he must renew annually.
“That goes through my mind,” Martinez says. “I guess I would have to put [plans] on hold.”
The bill’s author, Sen. Keith C. Leftwich, died after the law was enacted. But his widow, who succeeded him, said they expected students to be able to get jobs.
