Grads To Be Program

Who is Eligible for the Grads to Be Program Services?

We welcome all NOCE students, faculty, staff, and community members, regardless of their status, to participate in services. For additional information, contact us at grads2b@noce.edu.

Our Mission:

The Grads to Be Program provides resources and services to all students, including those who are undocumented, AB 540, and DACA. Resources and services are geared towards enhancing and supporting a student’s academic journey and personal well-being. The program fosters a supportive and inclusive campus community. 

Who We Are

The Grads To Be Program has centers established at all three North Orange County Community College District schools: Cypress College, Fullerton College, and North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE).

Grads To Be Background

The Grads To Be Program is offered through a private grant with Immigrants Rising. In 2018, a catalyst fund grant proposal through Immigrants Rising was submitted at NOCCCD by a team of staff members from Cypress College, Fullerton College, and NOCE.

This multi-million-dollar, three-year grant initiative was established to expand support for students, including those who are undocumented or from mixed-status families, across the state’s three public higher education systems: California Community Colleges, California State University, and the University of California.

The District’s proposal, awarded in 2019, aimed to create programs of support at all three college institutions and the North Orange County community. Services offered include the Undocumented Student Week of Action, legal aid, mentorship, academic advising, mental health advising, and more.

Legal Aid Appointments

NOCE offers students free one-hour legal assessment appointments throughout the academic year. Students can meet with a lawyer remotely, in-person, or by phone. In addition, students also have the option to access legal assessments through Find Your Ally

Appointments are available for all NOCE students.

Appointments are held remotely on Thursdays and in-person on Fridays. To book an appointment, contact the Counseling and Student Services Office at (714) 808-4682.

To learn more about the services or request an appointment, contact grads2b@noce.edu.  

Know Your Rights Training

In this workshop, you will learn your legal rights regardless of immigration status and learn how to navigate interactions with law enforcement and ICE. Discover immigration-related community resources.

Grads To Be Program Events

Kick-off Workshops

To introduce the program, outline available services, and prepare faculty and staff to support undocumented community college students effectively while raising awareness across campus. The session will focus on building community and establishing shared norms for collaboration, introducing the creation of a student club to foster belonging and advocacy, discussing the unique community college context and the specific needs of undocumented students, and sharing key campus and community resources that can provide ongoing support.

To educate and equip faculty, staff, and campus partners with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to support undocumented students effectively. The training fosters awareness of the unique challenges and strengths of undocumented students, builds cultural humility and allyship, clarifies relevant policies and procedures, and promotes the use of campus and community resources to create a more inclusive, supportive, and informed college environment.

Monthly Student Community Circle

Monthly community-building activities that create a safe and brave space for students to share their voices, goals, and stories while strengthening connection and belonging. Community education efforts, including AB 540 presentations at high schools and partnerships with Juvenile Justice RISE and student leaders, support awareness, access, and empowerment as students navigate pathways to higher education.