CT Students for a Dream (C4D) is a statewide advocacy network that fights for the rights of immigrant and undocumented students and families in the State of Connecticut. Undocumented youth are ineligible for need-based tuition aid, both on a state and federal level, making affording the cost of attending college an impossibility for many students and their families. Serving as an advocacy group, C4D firmly pushed for the passing of Connecticut Senate Bill 147 in 2016, making undocumented students eligible for aid. The bill, however, did not pass, but C4D did not stop fighting. Later, they pushed for the Husky for Immigrants Bill, presented to the State of Connecticut General Assembly in January 2021. As a result, starting in 2023, undocumented youth eight years old and younger will have access to Connecticut’s Medicaid program.
One of the ways that C4D helps students is by exposing them to their established network of mentors and leaders. The group is made up entirely of undocumented students. They look to connect with younger students and new members to serve as mentors who provide advice throughout their college careers.
The organization brings access to an abundance of scholarships that students can apply for, which can significantly assist in paying for college. Many of these scholarships are available specifically to undocumented students, others are open to students of a particular background, and others are available to all students.
Lastly, the group’s website, https://www.ct4adream.org, contains answers to common questions and guidance on how to proceed through the college process and college life as a whole. They also include more details about the group’s advocacy actions and plans and how students can get involved. At any time, you can contact their College Access Team to schedule a meeting and get involved.
Photo by Brett Jordan
