[An image of Columbia University. Photo credit: Pixaby]

In recent weeks, an exponential trend of student-led campouts has swept across universities across the United States.

Many universities such as Columbia University, Virginia Tech, University of Southern California, and more have been attempting to make agreements and arrangements with protesters; however, most are still unsuccessful.

As a result, universities such as Columbia University and University of Texas Austin have been taking greater measures and have turned to arrests and even suspensions.

The Washington Post reported a significant crackdown on April 18th, with New York police arresting nearly 100 protesters at Columbia University.

Faced with continual encampments, the university issued a stern ultimatum: leave peacefully or face suspension.

Despite deadlines set by Columbia University, defiance prevailed, which led to the initiation of the suspension process for protesting students, as reported by the BBC.

Meanwhile, at the University of Texas Austin, Texas police made multiple arrests and dismantled protesters camps, according to BBC and CNN reports.

As universities across the US approach the end of classes and graduation, it is critical that students are given the resources to succeed until the end.

However, disruptions caused by encampments and protests cast uncertainty over physical graduation ceremonies for many seniors.

In fact, some institutions, like Columbia University, have moved classes to hybrid learning for the rest of the term – much like during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Yet, the transition to hybrid learning has brought its own challenges.

The New York Post highlighted calls for tuition refunds at Columbia University amid the ongoing unrest.

The entire situation, especially for seniors and graduating students, has been difficult to say the least.

Finding common ground is imperative, as exemplified by Northwestern University’s recent negotiations with protesters.

According to CBS News, the University’s administration has reached a deal in which protesters may stay on campus until June 1st.

Emulating such dialogues could pave the way for constructive resolutions at other institutions struggling with similar challenges.