Barron Trump may be charting his own path in higher education, but he’s keeping his family close by during the process.
The 19-year-old son of former President Donald Trump and Melania Trump has quietly shifted his studies from New York City to Washington, D.C., for the fall semester.
From Manhattan to Washington, D.C.
Barron began his freshman year at New York University, commuting from Trump Tower to the school’s main Greenwich Village campus.
But when the new academic year kicked off in September and he wasn’t spotted at NYU’s Stern School of Business, questions arose about his whereabouts.
Those questions were answered when a source confirmed to PEOPLE that Barron is now enrolled at NYU’s Washington, D.C., campus—just blocks from the White House.
Unlike the bustling New York campus, which is home to more than 29,000 undergraduates, the D.C. program hosts only about 100 students.
According to the university, the branch offers coursework and hands-on opportunities in politics, policy, business, journalism, and leadership—an environment designed to immerse undergraduates in the capital’s unique landscape.
While tuition for the semester runs around $32,811, with housing adding another $9,500 or so, it’s unclear where Barron is currently living.
What is certain, though, is that Melania has always emphasized that her son will “always have a room waiting in the White House.” Whether Barron returns to New York after this semester remains to be seen.
A Protective Mother’s Watch
As for why he made the transfer, no official explanation has been given. Melania’s office also declined to comment. Still, those close to the family say the former first lady remains deeply protective of her only child.
One insider told PEOPLE, “Melania watches Barron constantly in an effort to be sure nobody messes with him or bullies him, as this is a constant worry with her. She always knows where he is and what he’s doing.”
Back in December, another source noted that Melania balances her public responsibilities with her family priorities. “Barron is in school all day, so she has plenty of time for official jobs as well as being there for her son when he needs her,” they explained.
Barron’s Own Interests
Despite his low profile, Barron has reportedly been busy outside the classroom. Over the summer, according to an insider, he was “actively working on his own financial interests and has spent time with others who he is involved with in that area.”
For now, dating doesn’t seem to be on his radar. The same source added, “He has more school, a family who dotes on him and a career of his own he is launching.”
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