How Barron Trump is fitting in and making friends at NYU
President Trumps youngest son is finding his stride in college life, connecting with peers in surprising ways
Barron Trump, the youngest son of former President Donald Trump, has begun a new chapter at New York University, leaving behind the comfort of his family home for the first time. Though his life has been anything but ordinary, Barron is now navigating the challenges of college life — including making friends in unconventional ways.
Barron Trump, 18, grew up surrounded by luxury and scrutiny. From having his own floor in Trump Tower as a child to living in the White House during his father’s presidency, Barron’s upbringing was worlds apart from most teenagers. After Donald Trump’s presidential term ended in 2020, Barron and his parents moved to Mar-a-Lago in Florida, where he completed high school at Oxbridge Academy.
At Oxbridge, Barron lived under tight security. Secret Service agents followed him everywhere, and he attended classes under the alias “Jack” to protect his privacy. Despite being described as funny and sociable, former classmates noted that Barron’s high school experience was far from typical.
“He didn’t go to football games or dances,” a former classmate told the Daily Mail. “I don’t think he met up with anyone outside of school. It’s a shame he didn’t get to have a normal high school life.”
Now enrolled in Stern Business School, Barron is focusing on academics and living closer to his childhood home, Trump Tower. NYU is known for its academic rigor, accepting only 5% of applicants to its undergraduate business program.
His father, Donald Trump, revealed that Barron had considered following in his footsteps by attending the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School but ultimately chose NYU. “It’s a very high-quality place,” Trump told the Daily Mail. “He liked the school, and we liked NYU.”
Though Barron has always been a soccer enthusiast — even playing for DC United’s youth team during his White House years — he’s now balancing academics and adjusting to life in the spotlight at college.
Making friends, the Barron way
College is often a time for forging new friendships, but for Barron, socializing comes with added complexity. Secret Service agents continue to accompany him everywhere, blending in as best they can to maintain his safety.
Despite these challenges, classmates have described Barron as “chill” and approachable. According to TMZ, he’s turned to online gaming to connect with fellow students, inviting them to join him on Discord to play EA Sports FC 25, a popular soccer game.
“He’s popular with the ladies,” a source told People Magazine, noting his tall stature and good looks. However, opinions about Barron on campus are mixed. Some students are curious about his background, while others feel his presence highlights the privilege of certain NYU attendees.
Melania Trump speaks out
Barron’s mother, Melania Trump, remains a constant support in his life. Speaking on Fox and Friends, she acknowledged the unique challenges her son faces.
“I don’t think it’s possible for him to be a normal student,” she said. “His experience at college is very different than any other kid’s, but he’s strong and understands his position.”
Whether Barron Trump will follow his father into politics remains to be seen. For now, he seems focused on carving out his own path while juggling the responsibilities and expectations that come with being a former president’s son.
College is a time for self-discovery, and Barron is navigating his way through this new chapter in his own unique style. Though his life is far from ordinary, his efforts to connect with classmates and pursue his interests show a young man determined to make the most of his circumstances.
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