Examining the Trump Presidency’s Impact on Latinx Undergraduate Students at an Elite 4-year University

Abstract

In recent years, the 45th President of the United States has used language that some regard as offensive towards the Latinx community. This study seeks to understand how Latinx college students during the Trump era have been affected by the political climate. Specifically, this investigation aims at (a) sharing how the Trump presidency has impacted Latinx students’ educational experience at a prestigious public university, including their mental health and well-being, and (b) comparing feelings/sentiments of the 2016 election to that of 2020. This study will be based upon surveys that have been distributed to Latinx undergraduate students. The survey also includes 2 open-ended questions that are designed to include student narratives. This report will show that Trump’s presidency has had a negative impact on Latinx students’ educational experiences and well-being; which in turn helps in understanding Latinx students’ perseverance in higher education.