Student Support Resources

Student support services are crucial, especially during times of political turbulence. In the context of the current political climate, which may include increasing polarization, shifts in government policies, or societal unrest, students often face heightened stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. In this environment, it’s essential for educational institutions to offer a variety of support services tailored to help students cope with the emotional, mental, and academic challenges they may be facing.

Here is some information regarding student support services that can help during such times:

Cultural and Identity Based Support

Ensuring that there are safe spaces for students from marginalized communities, where they can talk freely about their experiences and challenges, is vital. This is particularly important if political events involve issues of race, gender, or human rights. Cultural clubs or student organizations that align with a student’s identity (e.g., LGBTQ+ groups, ethnic student associations, women’s groups) can offer support, advocacy, and solidarity during times of political stress. Affirmation programs help students feel supported and validated in their identities and can provide resources to help them navigate a politically charged environment.

IDEAS is the official voice of undocumented students at UCLA, The organization exists to provide undocumented students with the resources and support needed to ensure their retention in higher education. Furthermore, IDEAS strives to ensure access to higher education by educating our communities about the opportunities open for higher education success.

Through individual support, education, and campus advocacy, USP provides academic, wellness, and emotional support to students and creates an inclusive environment and supportive community. The center occasionally facilitates trainings to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to support undocumented students effectively.

General information regarding undocumented student recourses across the UC campuses.

The webpage features a variety of student organizations on the UCLA campus. Whether you are searching for a cultural group or peers with the same interests, this page will provide you with information on the types of organizations that are active.

Academic Support and Accommodations
  • Flexible Deadlines and Extensions: Some students may struggle to focus on academics because of the stress induced by current events. Offering flexibility in deadlines or assignments can help alleviate this pressure. Ensure that you speak with your professor to explore different avenues that can allow you to meet your educational goals.
  • Peer Support: Peer study groups can support students who may be falling behind due to mental health struggles or distractions caused by the political climate. In the department, we offer the Spanish Club and Portuguese Club. It is more than just a learning space- it also serves as a space for students to share what is going on around them and be a support system for each other.
  • Accessible Learning Resources: Providing more robust access to online resources, such as recorded lectures or extended office hours, can help students who may need extra time or different ways to engage with course materials. Learn about certain accommodations here: https://cae.ucla.edu/accommodations
  • College/ Departmental Academic Advising: If you are struggling to organize your course workload, unsure if you will be graduating by your expected degree term, fulfilling requirements- you have a group of advisors that can assist with creating a degree plan that will allow you to meet your education goals.
Community Engagement and Advocacy

Civic Education and Engagement can encourage students to engage in constructive dialogues or participate in campus-based forums and can help them feel empowered and less passive in the face of political uncertainty. Some legal assistance services can assist students who are affected by changes in immigration laws, civil rights issues, or other legal concerns, providing access to essential legal advice or advocacy services.

Compiled by the UC Office of the President (UCOP), working with UC immigration experts and outside legal counsel, this page features the latest resources and guidance— providing our international and immigrant communities vital support and information to help them meet their academic and professional goals.

Immigration law is constantly evolving, and navigating the legal system can be overwhelming—especially for undocumented and immigrant communities. At the Undocumented Student Program, we recognize the serious challenges our students face and are committed to providing confidential, reliable, and culturally responsive legal support. Through our partnership with UC Immigrant Legal Services, we serve the immigration-related legal needs of undocumented and immigrant students and their immediate family members, as well as mixed-status families. UC Immigrant Legal Services is committed to advancing equity and success in higher education through provision of free, high-quality immigration legal representation, outreach, and education.

Booking an appointment:  https://outlook.office365.com/book/UCImmigrantLegalServicesCenter3@ucdavis365.onmicrosoft.com/

This center serves the immigration-related legal needs of undocumented and immigrant students and their immediate family members, as well as mixed-status families across the 9 UC campuses. The center operates out of UC Davis School of Law on unceded Patwin land.

The Dashew Center serves as a resource and learning center for the entire UCLA community to promote global connection, international understanding, and cultural sensitivity.

The center is a hub for immigration scholarship and advocacy, engaging community organizations, practitioners, lawmakers, and experts in the field.

UCOP is maintaining a federal updates page that provides the latest information, including weekly briefs on federal policies impacting the UC system.

As spring approaches, we want to provide important updates for those planning international travel, whether you are a student leaving for spring break, or faculty or staff traveling for professional or personal reasons. Evolving global incidents and federal travel policies may cause disruptions, so we strongly encourage you to stay informed and review the following guidelines to ensure a smooth and secure journey.

Mental Health and Counseling Services

Therapy and counseling with professional counselors can provide a safe space for students to express their concerns about the political climate, whether it’s related to personal identity, fear of uncertainty, or societal changes. Regular therapy sessions can help students process their emotions. Counselors and therapists also offer group counseling/ therapy or support groups where students can connect with peers who are experiencing similar feelings or challenges can be highly beneficial. Visiting recreational centers or participating in stress management sessions can allow students to learn new ways to manage anxiety, stress, and coping with uncertainty are particularly relevant in politically charged times.

CAPS is committed to supporting your health, healing, and hope, especially during this challenging time. If you are in need of mental health support during this time, and are not a CAPS client or unable to access your CAPS’ services due to being out of state, please see some accessible support and resources below. You may always call CAPS for additional support or with any questions. CAPS counselors will remain available by phone 24 hours per day at the CAPS main number: 310-825-0768.

The RISE Center’s core mission is to uplift and support every Bruin’s well-being by providing the education, resources, and tools needed to foster health, healing, and hope for themselves and the world around them. As an extension of UCLA Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), we are committed to helping students build a strong foundation of resilience that includes caring for their mental wellness through daily practice. Our intentional programming and restorative on-campus space are run by a dedicated and diverse staff who are committed to helping students become their authentic selves in accessible, supportive, and inclusive peer-oriented spaces. All services are free of cost and include an array of workshops, trainings, drop-in consultations, and self-directed resources. Programs are offered both in the RISE Center and in collaboration with students, staff, and partners across campus. The RISE team invites you to RISE Center any day of the week while we are open, especially if you are looking for a quiet and peaceful space on campus.

Crisis Intervention and Emergency Services

Emergency mental health support is available in cases where students are feeling overwhelmed, with some campuses offering 24/7 crisis hotlines or emergency mental health services that students can access at any time..

Case Managers are available to assist students struggling with mental or physical health, facing an unexpected challenge or crisis, or experiencing a personal loss. They can support students by exploring options, identifying on-campus resources, and helping students to create a plan for their next steps. Case Managers typically meet with a student one to four times in person and can check-in with a student via email/phone periodically throughout the academic year. Case Managers are also available to consult with and provide training for staff and faculty who would like to better support students of concern. Case Managers are key members of the Consultation and Response Team (CRT).

UCLA’s Consultation & Response Team (CRT) is a group of professional staff members who meet weekly to discuss students of concern by communicating relevant information and coordinating an institutional response. This team is comprised of representatives from a variety of campus departments.

Educational Information if ICE Comes to Campus