After a semester marked by widespread protests on college campuses across the nation, some students are expressing disappointment with how their universities have handled the demonstrations. Students at the University of Texas at Austin, Columbia University, the University of Southern California (USC), and Pomona College have raised concerns about freedom of speech, allegations of antisemitism and Islamophobia, and the use of excessive force by law enforcement.

Anne-Marie Jardine, a recent graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, expressed her disappointment and disillusionment with her alma mater, stating that she felt the university did not care about its students. Jardine, who participated in peaceful protests, detailed her traumatic experience of being forcefully arrested, leading to injuries and emotional distress.

Similarly, Arwyn Heilrayne, a freshman at the University of Texas at Austin, criticized the school's response to the protests, feeling as though her expectations of an inclusive and supportive campus environment were shattered. Heilrayne plans to take time this summer to heal after her arrest.

The protests, primarily related to Israel's war in Gaza, have resulted in nearly 3,000 arrests across various campuses, according to an NBC News tally. While many universities defended calling in law enforcement, there has been criticism regarding the intensity of police response, particularly after the incident at Columbia University where officers were called in to clear an occupied building.

Jewish and Muslim students have also criticized universities for not adequately addressing rising antisemitism and Islamophobia on campus. Jacob Schmeltz, a recent graduate of Columbia University, expressed disappointment with how his university failed to foster constructive conversations and rebuild trust between students. He emphasized the need for Columbia and other universities to work on regaining the trust they lost during this period.

Eli Hiekali, a recent graduate of USC, highlighted the overshadowing antisemitism he witnessed during the demonstrations, expressing frustration with the administration for allowing the encampment to remain on campus for an extended period without adequately addressing concerns.

Students opposing Israel's actions have also been active in the pro-Palestinian protests, with groups like Jewish Voice for Peace organizing events. Additionally, student protesters have criticized their schools for unequal scrutiny and disciplinary actions against counterprotesters.

As the academic year comes to a close, students are calling on universities to take action and address their concerns. They seek a more inclusive and respectful campus environment that values freedom of speech while condemning hate speech and discrimination.

It remains to be seen how universities will respond to these students' grievances and work toward building a more inclusive and supportive community.