Concerns Over Potential Policy Changes
Colorado College (CC) has advised its international students to return to campus before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, amid concerns about possible executive actions that could affect international travel. This warning aligns with similar advisories issued by institutions such as Columbia University, the University of Southern California, Cornell University, Harvard, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, according to NBC. Trump’s campaign rhetoric and his previous term’s immigration policies, including the controversial “Muslim ban,” have raised apprehensions among universities nationwide.
CC spokesperson Alexa Gromko emphasized the timing of the U.S. Presidential Inauguration Day, which coincides with the start of the college’s second semester. “We have been in touch with our international students who are on F-1 and J-1 visas, advising them to return to campus before Block 5 begins on January 20,” Gromko stated. CC’s unique Block plan structure allows students to focus on one course at a time, and Gromko expressed confidence that the semester’s alignment with the inauguration would minimize disruptions for returning students.
Supporting the International Student Community
With 110 international students comprising approximately 4.5% of its 2,400-strong student body, Colorado College remains committed to supporting its diverse student population. Gromko highlighted the college’s proactive measures to address potential challenges and safeguard students’ well-being. “We are closely monitoring for any immigration changes impacting F-1 and J-1 students and are working with campus partners to ensure international students feel included and supported,” she said.
F-1 visas are commonly issued to international students, while J-1 visas focus on fostering cultural and educational exchanges. CC’s “International Students” webpage indicated that in Fall 2023, the campus hosted 113 students from 44 countries, reflecting its global reach. Gromko reassured students that the institution is taking every precaution to mitigate travel complications, including one-on-one meetings with international students during the week leading up to the semester break.
A History of Immigration Uncertainty
The concerns raised by Colorado College and other universities are rooted in Trump’s first term, during which his administration enacted stringent immigration policies. The “Muslim ban,” issued during his initial week in office, left some students and faculty stranded overseas. Institutions now fear a potential repeat of such disruptions.
Gromko underscored the college’s commitment to its international student community. “We want them to know they are welcome here, that we are advocating for them, and that their mental health and sense of belonging remain a priority for us,” she said.
Colorado College concluded its fall semester classes earlier this week, and students are now preparing for their return in January. As the college takes preemptive steps to ensure a smooth transition, it joins other educational institutions in navigating a climate of uncertainty surrounding immigration policies in the coming months.
