As you may have noticed if you’ve been watching the news recently, Harvard University, the nation’s oldest and one of the most prestigious universities, is engaged in a full-scale battle with President Trump and his administration. This fight has a significant effect on the future of American higher education and students, particularly those internationally. Over the past few months, President Trump has launched a series of attacks against Harvard. These include slashing billions of dollars in federal funding, threatening to revoke the university’s tax-exempt status, denying student visas to those entering the country, and prohibiting foreign students from enrolling or remaining at Harvard. The administration says it’s trying to fight antisemitism, stop foreign influence, and make colleges less “woke.” Still, Harvard states this is government overreach and an attack on academic freedom. Harvard is seen as a symbol of
elite education and, in the eyes of some conservatives, a stronghold of liberal ideas. Harvard hasn’t done enough to combat antisemitism on campus, according to the administration, particularly in light of recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations. They also accuse the university of being too close to foreign
governments and of discriminating in it’s admissions and hiring practices. However, critics argue that these charges are merely a means of punishing Harvard for defying Trump’s demands to alter its hiring practices, admissions policies, and curriculum. One of the most dramatic moves from the administration was last week’s announcement: a six-month suspension on admitting new international students to Harvard, along with a push to revoke the visas of students already enrolled. This is significant be-
cause approximately 25% of Harvard’s student body comprises international students. For many international students, it means that their plans for the future are suddenly uncertain. Harvard is contesting this action in court, calling it “retaliatory.” Although some of the administration’s actions have been temporarily halted by a judge, the situation remains unclear. In terms of future action, Harvard is fighting back in court, and other colleges are joining the push to protect academic freedom and their students. But the Trump administration shows no signs of backing down, and the outcome could shape higher education for years to come. As one Harvard grad put it, “If this can happen to Harvard, it can happen to any university in the country.”