VSTA 2110 & 2120: Module 2 Certificate in Immigrant Advocacy

This course prepares students to work as immigrant advocates, paralegals, or partially Accredited Representatives serving immigrant families and communities. Working through Professor Pistone's 5-Stage Case Analysis Process, students develop the legal analysis, fact-gathering, and case assessment skills essential to immigration practice. Students learn to conduct thorough client intake interviews; research immigration law and identify the elements required to establish eligibility for immigration benefits; gather and analyze facts and evidence; draft persuasive professional documents including applications, declarations, and cover letters; prepare and submit complete application packages to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS); and maintain professional client case files. Students also compile an application for DOJ partial accreditation as an Accredited Representative, practice ethical advocacy, and engage in the self-care and communal care practices that sustain effective long-term service to immigrant communities.