Melania Trump, set to return to the White House as first lady in January, continues to defy tradition, with a new revelation setting her apart from past first ladies—she is the only first lady in over 200 years without a college degree. This fact has sparked conversations, particularly in comparison to her predecessors, many of whom boasted impressive academic backgrounds.
For example, Michelle Obama graduated from Princeton University before attending Harvard Law School, Laura Bush earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree, and Hillary Clinton graduated from Yale Law School. Melania’s story diverges notably. Born in Slovenia, then part of Yugoslavia, she moved to the United States to pursue a modeling career, as reported by Irish Star.Â
Although she briefly attended the University of Ljubljana, she left after just one year. Despite her departure, she is still listed as an alumnus on the university’s website alongside other notable figures like philosopher Slavoj Žižek, who notably endorsed Donald Trump in 2016.
This educational gap has brought attention to Melania’s unique journey and how it redefines the role of the first lady. Unlike her predecessors, who followed traditional paths of academic achievement, Melania’s lack of a degree contrasts with her polished public persona and the expectations placed on first ladies.
As she prepares for her second term, Melania continues to break from tradition. Reports indicate that she will not move into the White House full-time, a departure from the typical role of first lady. Instead, she plans to split her time between New York City and Palm Beach, Florida, prioritizing the education and comfort of her son, Barron Trump, who is currently attending New York University.
“I’m not anxious because this time is different. I have much more experience and much more knowledge,” she said, referencing her time in the White House during her first tenure. “When you go in, you know exactly what to expect.” Her son Barron, now 18, remains her primary focus, with Melania explaining, “I could not say I’m an empty nester. I don’t feel that way, as reported by CNN.
It was his decision to come here… he wants to be in New York, study… and live in his home and I respect that.” She added that Barron is enjoying his college years and hopes he will have a great experience, acknowledging that his life is very different from that of most 18-year-olds.
Insiders suggest that while Melania maintains a supportive role as an advisor to her husband, she avoids overt political campaigning, instead guiding him with strategic advice. Throughout her time as First Lady, Melania has often challenged expectations, and her approach to her second term promises to be just as unconventional.