Trump's Clash with Ivy League Institutions Misses the Mark on Most Students' College Choices

Headlines frequently spotlight the conflict between former President Donald Trump’s administration and prestigious institutions like Harvard and Columbia. However, these elite universities cater to merely a fractional segment of the nearly 20 million undergraduates nationwide. As an associate professor specializing in higher education, I've studied the dynamics influencing college access and perseverance. Elite private institutions account for under 1% of students, predominantly enrolling those from affluent backgrounds. Conversely, elite public universities also feature selective admissions, serving similar demographics. Meanwhile, community colleges play a pivotal role in accessibility, admitting diverse candidates and offering affordable education. Regional universities enroll around 70% of public university students, showcasing various academic options. Additionally, small private colleges and for-profit institutions, catering to specific needs, reveal the complexities of the U.S. college landscape.