31 DREAMers enrolled in California colleges were recently given the opportunity to visit their native Mexico – a place that some may have been too young to even remember leaving – for a month-long study abroad program. The program, which is made possible through Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and advance parole (an immigration document issued that allows certain non-citizens to re-enter the U.S.), was limited to students in California. But now, a new program in Dallas will give 10 college students and recent graduates a chance to participate in the DACA Cultural Exchange Program, “an all-expenses paid, five-week study abroad program in Mexico City.”
The Latino Center for Leadership Development and the Consulate General Of Mexico in Dallas launched the exchange program so that students could learn more about where they come from while attending El Colegio de Mexico, according to a press release. They will take classes, visit historical sites, and meet with policy makers. The trip begins June 6 and ends July 8.
The program is available to students with GPAs that are 2.5 or higher. They need to have strong verbal and written skills in Spanish, and they must be born in Mexico.
El Colegio de Mexico will waive tuition costs, and transportation, lodging, meals, air travel will be covered by LatinoCLD.
“Given their immigration circumstances, this study abroad program will give some students their first opportunity to return to their country of birth,” said Miguel Solis, LatinoCLD President. “We’re humbled we can make this possibility a reality.”
The deadline to apply is February 15. Fill out the online application here.