As the world knows by now, the United States re-elected Donald Trump as President. Even prior to the election, there were questions around what the future of higher education might look like given the looming 2025 demographic cliff, fallout from this year’s FAFSA rollout, shifts in higher education ambitions, and more.
The election results however, will likely signal even more questions for higher ed in the United States. From proposed changes to Title IX to potential cuts to federal student aid to shutting down the Department of Education, we’re facing a period of uncertainty for the future of higher education—especially for underserved communities.
A reduction in federal support for higher education will likely also mean fewer student services, which will increase the challenges for schools across the country who are already stretched thin. Without adequate funding for tutoring, mental health support, or academic advising, marginalized students risk falling through the cracks. Here at Upswing, we believe that the value of higher education lies not only in the classrooms, but in the support systems that help students stay motivated, overcome challenges, and complete their degrees.
Growing up in South Georgia, I personally struggled with the ins and outs of getting to and through college, but despite the resources I wish I had, I was blessed to have a support system that many of my peers in my community didn’t. And to this day, I believe that made all the difference.
While it’s likely that the path to support for marginalized students may have gotten more challenging, the truth is there is never an ideal time to be a marginalized student. My company, Upswing, can attest to this firsthand as we’ve navigated so many higher education challenges over the years.
We work daily with students who are the first in their families to attend college, students who must work full time to make ends meet, underrepresented communities, and others balancing jobs and family obligations while trying to obtain their degree. What is certain is that policies that reduce funding for grants, increase the burden of student loans, or limit resources for community and minority-serving colleges will make college access even more daunting for these students. These resources are not just helpful; they’re essential.
As an example, in the Spring of 2020 during the thick of Covid-19, Upswing sent a campaign to marginalized students across the country via our virtual assistant, Ana, reminding them to fill out their FAFSA for the Fall. One student in particular replied back to Ana that she did fill out her FAFSA, but had since decided she was not enrolling. When asked why, she responded that since her classes abruptly went fully remote she couldn’t access them because her children (who were also in school) used her only laptop now and she couldn’t get in touch with her professors. She continued that she lost her job as well, and felt like everything she was going through was simply too much. Through interventions, Upswing was able to help her get in touch with her professors, access a borrowed laptop from the campus, and qualify for an emergency grant. A few weeks later, the student wrote back to Ana:
“I took all 3 of my exams and made 2 100s and a 98! Thank you so much! You were heaven sent ❤️. When I started having trouble you started texting me and didn’t even know. I would have dropped out if it wasn’t for you. So thank you with all my heart ❤️.”
Investing in higher education benefits not only individual students, but also communities and the nation as a whole. Higher education can and should be an equalizer, and we are hopeful that this administration will make the decisions needed to keep it that way. But regardless of whatever policies are enacted, our mission at Upswing will remain clear and resolute: we are here to support students, no matter what. We’re committed to ensuring that every student has the resources they need to succeed in their educational journey. To other organizations and individuals who share our commitment to supporting underserved students, we invite you to join us. Let’s start a conversation on how we can work together to make a lasting impact for those who need it most.
CEO and Co-Founder
Upswing
