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Abstract

Incarceration can be a long-lasting, stigmatizing life event that significantly impacts one's life and limits ex-offenders in various aspects of their life. The impact of widespread criminal records can obstruct reentry, economic stability, and full participation in society, whether minor, major, old, or new. The study aims to explore the stigma attached to incarceration and the motivation of undergraduate students for Service-Learning. Based on responses from three semi-structured interviews with students interns of the Records Clearance Project of San Jose State University, it was evident that after completing their sentences, ex-offenders come into many barriers that may prevent them from leading a life and in their community engagement. The study also discusses the importance of social and familial integration for effective rehabilitation and undergraduate students' drive even slightly to improve people's lives. According to the paper's conclusions, collateral consequences of incarceration are an invisible form of punishment, and successful reintegration of ex-offenders into society requires support from both the government and society. However, it is critical to investigate their lives after their criminal records have been expunged and any support they may receive from friends and family.

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