What a Second Trump Administration May Mean for Higher Education (Robert Kelchen)

For the last two presidential transitions, I have written pieces about what the new president (Trump in 2016 and Biden in 2020) may mean for higher education. My expectations back in 2016 were the following:

• He would not repeal the Department of Education. (He never seriously tried.)
• Tuition-free public college was dead. (True at the federal level, but state-level programs grew following Tennessee’s lead.)
• He talked about income-driven repayment changes and going back to having private banks guarantee loans. (Neither happened, although he did pause payments during the pandemic.)
• There would be fewer regulations and an accountability reprieve for the for-profit college sector. (True.)

After four years of President Trump in power, the higher education community has a better sense of what is coming than we did back in 2016. Here are some of the key things that I am watching over the next several months and years.

(1) The subtitle for my piece on the incoming Biden administration was, “If the Democrat wins, he will have to govern by executive order, much as his predecessor did.” That is not going to be as easy this time around. One of conservatives' biggest Supreme Court wins recently was the overturning of the Chevron precedent that will result in less authority for federal agencies to enact regulations. For at least the next four years, this is going to bite the Trump administration right in the behind. Unless…

(2) Political appointees try acting through issuing directives that are implemented before courts can step in, hoping that they will be unwilling to unwind something that is already being done. It hearkens back to the alleged quote from Andrew Jackson: The Chief Justice “has made his decision; now let him enforce it.” A frequent refrain among progressives over the last few years has been that the Biden administration should immediately cancel student debt, making it difficult for the debt to be reinstated later upon court order. It would not be surprising to see Trump appointees trying to score a policy win (or at least some political points with their base) in that manner. Two likely areas are around federal financial aid to so-called “woke” colleges and international student visas.

(3) While Republicans retook the Senate with at least three votes to spare, House control is still too early to tell as of this writing and is likely to be razor-thin. House Republicans had more than a few challenges in the current Congress with a slim majority, and it is going to be difficult to pass a lot of legislation when hardliners and moderates within the GOP disagree on so many things. Conservatives detest omnibus budget bills and have been pushing for 12 separate budget bills for years. But the result is usually one large bill passed in mid-December, which creates incentives for compromise. Trump has not been particularly concerned about deficits, so conservatives are unlikely to get major budget cuts.

(4) The Higher Education Act was last reauthorized in 2008. I still might retire before it happens again, and I don’t plan on going anywhere for a while. While the Department of Education is not going away anytime soon, there are enough Republicans who would rather throw out the entire department than make substantive reforms. Democrats likely prefer the status quo to any new major legislation, so we can keep waiting on reauthorization for a long time. This does not mean that some policy changes cannot happen; the major changes to the FAFSA last year came through an omnibus budget bill in 2020. But any changes will be piecemeal in the grand scheme of things.

(5) President Trump and Congressional leaders will use the bully pulpit to go after selective colleges and their leaders. Last year's House hearings were very effective for Republicans, as they led to several presidents resigning. If something works in Washington, expect to see it again—especially as both Trump and Vance are products of those institutions. Community colleges and regionally-focused public and private institutions are likely to fly under the radar, as going after them will not generate media attention. But I would not want to be a president of a blue-state flagship university or an elite private college right now, and any leader who is not a white man is likely to face additional scrutiny if last year’s hearings were a guide.

(6) Keep a close eye on who ends up at the Department of Education. Most of the commentary out there about potential Cabinet secretaries barely even mentions ED, but he still needs to identify someone to run the agency on an acting basis. Betsy DeVos is off the table for a second term because she resigned in the aftermath of January 6, and this is a job that many conservatives do not aspire to reach. A name that I am watching is Oklahoma’s state superintendent of education, Ryan Walters, as he tried to get Trump-branded Bibles into public school classrooms and supports the elimination of the Department of Education. Will K-12 or higher education be the focus? I have long contended that higher ed is the area of greatest importance for a Secretary of Education, but a focus on social issues may change that.

Higher education was in for a challenging period regardless of who was elected, thanks to growing skepticism over the value of a college education, increasing political polarization by educational attainment, and the state of federal student loans. This week’s election just magnified all of those concerns. Buckle up, folks…it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

[Editor's note: This article first appeared at the Kelchen on Education blog.] 

Letter to an incoming freshman

Dear Freshman,

Congratulations on this exciting new chapter! College is a time of immense growth, discovery, and opportunity. Done right, there will be uncertainty, challenges, long hours of study, and difficult decisions to make for your future self. 

Who am I? Where am I going? Why am I here? 

College is a transformative experience where you’ll discover more about yourself than ever before. It’s essential to examine and understand your identity, values, and goals. Reflect on your upbringing, your family’s influence, and the experiences that have shaped who you are today. This self-awareness will guide you as you explore new academic interests, build lasting friendships, and determine your career path. Seek guidance when needed, and embrace the opportunities that come your way.

 

 

Utilize the Campus Services You Pay For

College campuses offer resources to support your academic and personal success. Take advantage of services like tutoring, academic advising, and counseling. These professionals are here to help you overcome challenges, reach your goals, and make the most of your college experience. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness. Explore the various campus organizations and clubs that align with your interests to build a supportive community and develop new skills.

Seek Out the Best Teachers

The best teachers are more than just educators; they are mentors and guides. They inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and create a supportive learning environment. These individuals go above and beyond to help students reach their full potential. They possess a passion for their subject matter that is contagious, and they have a genuine care for their students' well-being. Seek out professors who challenge you intellectually, encourage your creativity, and provide constructive feedback. Building strong relationships with your professors can significantly enhance your college experience.   

Solidarity and Belonging

College is filled with diversity and complexity. Embrace this diversity as a chance to learn and grow. Seek out communities where you feel a sense of belonging, whether it's based on shared interests, cultural heritage, or academic pursuits. Remember, your voice matters, and your experiences are valuable. By connecting with others, you’ll build a strong support network that will sustain you through your college years and beyond.

Avoid Peer Pressure

College is a time for exploration and new friendships, but it’s also important to stay true to yourself. Peer pressure can be intense, but remember that you have the power to make your own choices. Surround yourself with supportive friends who encourage your goals. If you find yourself in a situation that makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to say no. Your well-being is paramount, and it’s okay to prioritize your values over fitting in. Trust your instincts and seek support from trusted mentors or faculty members if needed.

Cultural Competence

As you embark on this exciting chapter of your life, it’s crucial to develop cultural competence. Understanding and appreciating different cultures is essential for personal growth and success. Cultivating cultural competence means being open-minded, respectful, and empathetic towards individuals from various backgrounds. It involves learning about different customs, traditions, and perspectives, and challenging your own biases. By embracing diversity, you’ll enrich your college experience, build stronger relationships, and become a more well-rounded individual.

Navigating Challenges

It's natural to feel a sense of alienation at times, especially when facing new environments and academic pressures. Know that these feelings are temporary, and you will find your place. Resilience is key to overcoming obstacles. Challenges are opportunities for growth, and they will shape you into a stronger and more capable individual. Cultivate a growth mindset, believing in your ability to learn and improve.

Financial Reality and Planning

Let's address the elephant in the room: student loan debt. It's a significant challenge facing many graduates. While education is an investment in your future, it's crucial to approach it with financial prudence. Explore scholarship opportunities, work-study programs, and part-time jobs to minimize your reliance on loans. Create a budget, track your expenses, and understand the terms of your loans. Your future self will thank you for being proactive about your finances.

Additionally, the job market can be competitive, and underemployment is a reality for many recent graduates. While college provides a strong foundation, it’s essential to develop practical skills and experience through internships, co-ops, and extracurricular activities. Network with professionals in your field, and be prepared to adapt your career goals as needed.

Safety and Well-being

College can be an exhilarating time, but it's important to prioritize your safety and well-being. Alcohol and drug abuse can have severe consequences, including academic failure, impaired judgment, and increased risk of sexual assault. It's crucial to consume alcohol responsibly (or not at all) and to avoid drugs altogether.

Sexual assault is a serious issue on college campuses. Learn about consent, bystander intervention, and campus resources. Trust your instincts, and never hesitate to seek help if you feel unsafe.

Creating a Meaningful Experience

College is more than just academics. Explore your passions, try new things, and step outside your comfort zone. When you are stable academically, engage in extracurricular activities, volunteer, and connect with your community. These experiences will enrich your life and help you discover your purpose.

Justice, Equity, and Fairness

College is a place to question, challenge, and advocate for what you believe in. Be informed about social issues and engage in thoughtful conversations. Your voice has the power to create positive change. Remember, justice, equity, and fairness are fundamental to a thriving society. Be an advocate for yourself and others, and strive to create a more inclusive and equitable world.

Taking Care of Yourself

Prioritize your mental and physical health. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and find ways to manage stress productively. Don’t hesitate to seek support from campus counseling services or other resources. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's essential for your success and well-being.

You are capable of achieving great things. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your successes, and never stop learning. Your future self is counting on you!

With support, determination, careful planning, and a strong commitment to safety, you can navigate the complexities of college life and emerge as a well-rounded, resilient individual.  And don't forget to write back. 

Sincerely, The Higher Education Inquirer

We believe in your potential.