Kai Trump, granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, has embarked on her freshman year at the University of Miami, trading the familiar comforts of home for a new independent living situation. The 19-year-old, who is balancing her academic pursuits with her role as a Division I athlete on the university’s women’s golf team, offered a glimpse into her new life through a video tour shared on her YouTube channel. Unlike many students who begin their college journey in traditional dormitories, Trump has settled into a more spacious accommodation: a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment.
A Luxurious College Residence
Describing her new living space, Trump expressed gratitude, acknowledging her fortunate circumstances as a freshman. The apartment features a contemporary design with an open-plan kitchen as its centerpiece. This culinary space is highlighted by a large white island, complemented by metallic silver bar stools. Sleek, integrated appliances are concealed behind dark wood cabinetry, seamlessly flowing into a generously sized living area. This lounge space is furnished with a substantial white sectional sofa, accented by gray cushions, a patterned rug, and an additional loveseat. A flat-screen television is mounted above a console that includes a faux fireplace, adding a touch of warmth to the modern aesthetic.
The neutral color palette extends to the private quarters. The main bedroom is appointed with a white bed, crisp white linens, and coordinating furniture. The apartment’s second bedroom has been repurposed as a functional office space, equipped with a desk, chair, and an extra couch, providing a dedicated area for study and work.
Personal Touches Amidst Modern Design
Beyond its polished appearance, Trump has infused her new apartment with personal and sentimental elements. The walls are adorned with black-and-white prints that evoke the atmosphere of Aspen, interspersed with photographs capturing cherished moments with family and friends. Notably, a framed picture depicts Kai playing golf with her grandfather, Donald Trump, underscoring a significant aspect of their relationship.
Reflecting on her new home, Trump shared, “I love it. It’s really nice coming home to no one, and after a long day on the golf course, it’s always nice to just chill here and do nothing.” This sentiment highlights the appeal of having a personal sanctuary after demanding days of academic and athletic commitments.
Navigating the Challenges of Freshman Life
Despite the comforts of her impressive apartment, the transition to college life and living away from her family has presented emotional hurdles for Kai Trump. In an earlier vlog detailing her initial week in Miami, she candidly shared tearful moments as she prepared to leave her family and friends in Jupiter. Trump admitted to being surprised by the emotional impact of the move, as she doesn’t typically consider herself particularly sentimental.
Her mother, Vanessa Trump, played an integral role in helping Kai settle in, assisting with the move and accompanying her on an extensive shopping trip to furnish and equip the apartment. Kai later expressed her appreciation for her mother’s support on social media, referring to her as “the BEST mom.”
The initial phase of her college experience also presented practical challenges. Juggling classes, athletic meetings, and golf practice left Trump admitting she wasn’t eating properly. This prompted a friend, Emma, to bring over a supply of meals, including frozen dishes, fruit, prosciutto, pasta, and bread. Adding to these difficulties, Trump subsequently fell ill with strep throat and a sinus infection, necessitating a return to Jupiter for her mother’s care. She later returned to Miami, appearing to adapt to her new routine.
A Promising College Golf Career
Golf is a central element in Kai Trump’s life, extending far beyond a casual pastime. Her profile on the University of Miami’s official roster confirms her status as a freshman for the 2026-27 season. The listing details an accomplished junior golf career, featuring participation in competitive circuits such as the Srixon Medalist Tour, AJGA, and South Florida PGA. Her competitive achievements include a runner-up finish at the 2025 Major Championship at Village Golf Course and contributing to her high school team’s success in securing four consecutive district titles.
Trump officially committed to the University of Miami in November 2025, having initially announced her intention to join the program in 2024. She cited the coaching staff, proximity to home, the university’s academic reputation, and the positive interactions with current students as key factors in her decision. The fact that some of her cousins also attended the university further solidified her connection to the institution.
The Grandfather-Granddaughter Golf Connection
The photograph of Kai Trump with her grandfather, Donald Trump, displayed in her apartment, serves as a fitting symbol of their shared passion for golf. Trump began playing at the young age of two and has frequently credited her grandfather with nurturing her interest and love for the sport. In her announcement of her college commitment, she extended thanks to her parents for their unwavering support and specifically acknowledged her grandfather for providing access to excellent golf courses and offering significant encouragement.
While her family background is extraordinary, Trump maintains that their relationship operates on a more personal, everyday level. When asked about being the granddaughter of a U.S. President, she has described him as simply a “normal grandpa,” emphasizing that the dynamic has always been ordinary for her, despite the public profile. She views her relationship with him as fundamentally similar to that of any other grandchild and their grandfather, acknowledging the unique aspects but prioritizing the personal connection.
