Last week we hosted a great session with Opportunity Scholars and their families to learn more about the Opportunity Scholarship, hear advice from current Scholars and parents, and answer Frequently Asked Questions as you prepare for the big move to your new Partner College.
During the session, current Scholars shared that moving away from home can feel exciting, overwhelming, and even a little scary at first, but they also reminded new Scholars that they are not alone. They encouraged you to stay connected, ask questions, build community early, and reach out to your Scholar Advisor, other Opportunity Scholars, and TheDream.US whenever you need support.
A few reminders from the session:
- Please check your email regularly for important orientation and onboarding information from TheDream.US and your Partner College.
- Your Opportunity Scholarship can only be used at the Partner College listed in your award letter.
- Travel costs, personal items, room supplies, other personal expenses, as well as books and supplies, are not covered by the scholarship, so please plan ahead and ask your Partner College about any available campus resources.
- Many Scholars find support by connecting with other Dreamers, joining campus activities, asking about internships or scholarships, and staying in close communication with family.
Bookmark your Scholarship Program Guide
As a reminder, you can reach out to your Partner College’s admissions contact below if you have any campus-specific questions:
Christian Brothers University
Miguel Garcia
[email protected]
901-321-3392
Delaware State University
Carlos Holmes
[email protected]
302-399-5972
Dominican University
Yessenia Hernandez
[email protected]
708-524-6202
Eastern Connecticut State University
Yesenia Cajigas
[email protected]
860-465-5150
Trinity Washington University
Rosa Reyes
[email protected]
202-884-9298
Lastly, check out the following resources on travel guidance for Dreamers:
- Our latest Instagram post with travel guidance
- Guide for Undocumented Individuals Traveling in the USA
- Informed Immigrant: Know Your Rights
A Note for Parents and Families
We know that sending your Scholar to college, especially in a new state, is a big step for the whole family. During the session, current parents reminded families that your encouragement, trust, and communication will be very important as your Scholar begins this new chapter.
It is normal to feel proud, nervous, or unsure about what comes next. Please know that your Scholar will have support from their Partner College, TheDream.US, and a community of other Scholars who are navigating this journey together. One of the most helpful things families can do is stay connected, encourage their Scholar to ask for help, and remind them that they are capable of succeeding.
Please review this information as you prepare for your move. We are here to help you in this new chapter! Let us know if you have any questions related to your Opportunity Scholarship award at [email protected].
We are with you every step of the way!
TheDream.US Team
Un Mensaje Para Padres y Familias
Sabemos que enviar a su estudiante a la universidad, especialmente a otro estado, es un gran paso para toda la familia. Durante la sesión, los padres que actualmente tienen estudiantes en nuestro programa les recordaron a las familias nuevas que su apoyo, confianza y comunicación serán muy importantes mientras su estudiante comienza este nuevo capítulo.
Es normal sentirse orgullosos, nerviosos o inseguros sobre lo que viene. Por favor sepan que su estudiante contará con el apoyo de representantes en cada universidad (Partner Colleges), el equipo de TheDream.US y una comunidad de otros estudiantes que también están navegando este camino. Una de las cosas más importantes que pueden hacer las familias nuevas es mantenerse conectadas, animar a su estudiante a pedir ayuda y recordarles que son capaces de tener éxito.
Por favor revisen esta información mientras se preparan para la mudanza. ¡Estamos aquí para apoyarlos en este nuevo capítulo! Si tienen alguna pregunta relacionada con la beca de Oportunidad, por favor escríbanos a [email protected].
¡Estamos aquí para apoyarlos!
El equipo de TheDream.US