As Election Day wrapped up on Tuesday, tensions were high.

Throughout the country, reported threats of violence were abound. Voters anxiously awaited results throughout the night and into Wednesday.

Former Republican President Donald Trump won the 2024 presidential election after he claimed the 270 electoral votes needed to win the presidency, according to the Associated Press. 

Regardless of who you were rooting for, it’s important students maintain cordiality and foster safe spaces for respectful political conversations.

Related: USF students debate major policy issues ahead of election

College campuses are spaces where young adults explore their identities, challenge their beliefs and engage with a wide range of discussions. This means students should not feel threatened by adversity, but should be motivated to seek understanding.

“College settings are incredibly diverse in terms of experiences and viewpoints,” said Joshua Sacco, USF’s Director of the Center for Sustainable Democracy. “College students are at a moment developmentally when they will encounter the most divergence from their experiences.”

To create a safe space for political discussions on campus, students must engage in healthy conversations and respectfully acknowledge the opinions of others.

When holding political discussions, it is important not to add hostile personal attacks to the conversation or reiterate false information. 

For those who voted for Trump, it’s important to win with grace. And for those who didn’t, it’s also important to cope and process the disappointment.

Talk with friends, family or even professors to deal with your feelings on the election.

If you feel like you want to talk to a professional, you can talk to a counselor through a Crisis Text Hotline by texting “ELECTIONS” or “ELECCIONES” to 741741. 

Consider using some of USF’s mental health resources, such as the Counseling Center and TimelyCare.

Related: Election day draws excitement, anxiety from USF voters

Harmful conversations can be perpetuated from conversations in the classroom, campus organizations or social media.

In October, 57.4% of 1,037 respondents said social media had a negative effect on American democracy, according to a survey conducted by USF’s Center for Sustainable Democracy.

College students are constantly absorbing information online, perpetuating opinions about politics.

“Individuals must understand how they have arrived at a particular viewpoint in order to be able to connect experience and learning to a conversational situation,” Sacco said. “I attempt to open space in my classes for discussions by asking students what experiences they have had that lead them to express a particular viewpoint.”

Disagreements are natural – healthy even. When approached with respect, they can become opportunities for learning rather than sources of conflict.

Debating is an essential aspect of the college experience as it enables students to explore new perspectives, refine their beliefs and develop critical thinking skills.

In the end, democracy is not just about the majority winning, it’s about ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.

At USF, we can ensure all voices feel welcome by making space for civil and informed discussions.