Earlier this year, an 18-year-old high school senior from New York City had planned to enroll at Columbia University’s sister school Barnard College in Manhattan as an early decision student. However, due to heightened tensions over the Israel-Gaza conflict on some US campuses, including at Barnard and Columbia, her parents decided to reconsider her college choice.
The student, who preferred to remain anonymous, ultimately opted for Brandeis University in Massachusetts. Brandeis University was one of only two schools on the Anti-Defamation League’s 2024 list of 85 colleges that received an A grade for its response to antisemitic incidents on campus and its support for Jewish students. The student, who is Jewish, expressed relief and satisfaction with her decision, stating, 'Barnard was my top choice. I was so dead set on going. But after seeing what is happening on campuses, I feel so glad I am going to Brandeis. I feel really happy and safe knowing they got an A.'
As campus protests related to various issues, including the Israel-Gaza conflict, continue to unfold at universities across the United States, many families are facing dilemmas regarding where to send their high school students in the upcoming fall semester. Mimi Doe, the co-founder and CEO of Top Tier Admissions, an organization that assists students in gaining admission to their preferred colleges, noted that some students have already reconsidered their enrollment decisions, particularly concerning Columbia University.
These recent events highlight the impact of campus climate and responses to sensitive issues on students' college choices. The importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs, is underscored by the decisions made by these prospective students and their families.
