The international political climate continues to raise concerns among international students in the United States, as more and more higher education institutions are recommending that they return to campus before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. The move comes amid concerns that new travel bans could be imposed, similar to those imposed during his first term.
Several institutions have issued advisories, though Trump’s intentions remain unclear. Some academic programs are starting before Trump’s inauguration, requiring students to be on campus. However, for those whose ability to remain in the United States depends on a student visa, it is best to minimize risk and return to campus before January 20.
In 2017, Trump signed an executive order banning travel to the United States by citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries, sparking outrage and confusion among travelers, including students and university staff. The move affected about 40,000 visa applicants. The restrictions were lifted by President Joe Biden in 2021.
With more than 1.1 million international students enrolled in U.S. institutions, the impact of these decisions is significant. Students primarily from India and China account for more than half of international students in the United States, including about 43,800 from the 15 countries affected by Trump’s travel restrictions.
Universities have advised international students on vacation to return to campus before the inauguration, anticipating possible delays at immigration checks. Renowned institutions such as Harvard, MIT, and the University of California are seeking to prevent any inconvenience to students.
The prospect of seeing Trump’s policies return raises concerns among many students, who see the threat to their academic careers. Despite these uncertainties, the desire to maintain a dynamic of international intellectual exchange remains strong among the student community.
In conclusion, the current situation raises legitimate concerns within the international student community. The measures taken by universities aim to ensure the safety and well-being of students, while preserving an academic environment conducive to intellectual development. Let us hope that these restrictions will not hamper cultural and scientific exchanges, which are essential to the richness of our modern society.