My name is Hannah Adams-Claros, and I am a student who is part of the Underground Scholars Program at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Every day, I face the challenge of navigating my academic journey without a dedicated space where fellow students and I can gather, connect, and access necessary resources. It's not just about having a physical location, it's about creating an environment that truly feels like home, a place where we can thrive both academically and personally especially for students being system-impacted or formerly incarcerated.

Currently, the Underground Scholars Program, which supports formerly incarcerated students and those impacted by the criminal justice system, lacks a specific area that caters to our unique needs and experiences. This gap often leaves us feeling marginalized and disconnected within our academic community. The absence of this space hinders our ability to collaborate, share experiences, build essential support networks, and access the specific resources and mentorship we desperately need.

Statistics demonstrate that formerly incarcerated individuals face significant barriers in higher education, from stigmatization to lack of academic support. According to a 2018 study by the Prison Policy Initiative, formerly incarcerated individuals are eight times less likely to complete higher education. To combat these challenges, initiatives like the Underground Scholars Program need dedicated spaces, fostering community and support.

A dedicated space could provide:
1. Essential resources such as computers, books, and study materials tailored to our curriculum and needs.
2. A venue for workshops, mentoring sessions, and community meetings that address the unique challenges we face.
3. A communal area to build trust, share stories, and develop strategies to overcome personal and academic obstacles.

I urge the University's Administration to acknowledge our needs and start the process of allocating a space for the Underground Scholars Program. This investment will not only aid in our academic success but enrich the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Let us transform our vision into reality by signing this petition. Your support will be a monumental step towards creating a nurturing, empowering, and inclusive environment for students in the Underground Scholars Program. Please sign and help us make a difference.

For more information about the program, visit our page https://undergroundscholars.ucsb.edu/home.