Students at the University of Michigan shared their varied perspectives with Fox News Digital regarding the university's recent decision to eliminate diversity statements from its faculty hiring, promotion, and tenure processes.

Freshman art and design major Jasmine expressed a nuanced view. "While the term 'DEI' can be controversial, ensuring minority representation on campus remains crucial," she stated. "However, this shouldn't come at the expense of equal opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds."

Graduate student Ben voiced concern, stating, "Removing the emphasis on diversity considerations could hinder progress in addressing persistent societal inequalities. Historical precedents show that institutional guidance is often necessary to drive widespread change." He pointed to school integration as an example.

The University Of Michigan North Campus signage in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)

Sophomore Schnaede, majoring in theater and cognitive science, expressed worry about the decision-making process itself. "Regardless of one's stance on DEI's effectiveness, such a significant change should involve the entire university community – faculty, students, and staff – not just the regents," she argued.

Sophomore data science engineer Michael simply stated, "I believe addressing DEI is important, and I find this decision disheartening."

Senior architecture student Joseph offered a contrasting perspective, praising the removal of diversity statements. "I believe students should be evaluated based on their individual merits, not on factors like race or gender. We are all unique individuals," he emphasized.

Economics and film, television, and media double major Evan shared a personal reflection. "As someone with learning disabilities, I sometimes question whether I truly earned my place here. I wonder if my disabilities inadvertently gave me an advantage in the admissions process," he admitted.

The Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies Building is viewed on the central campus March 24, 2015, at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Robert Nickelsberg/Getty Images)

Referencing a New York Times article highlighting Black students' criticism of UM's DEI initiatives as "superficial," Joseph concurred. "I believe such programs often prioritize appearances over genuine representation and can lead to admitting students based on factors other than merit," he explained.

Ben responded to the same article, noting, "While some Black students may find DEI efforts lacking, they likely wouldn't support a top-down dismantling of these programs, which could harm the community."

As a freshman, Jasmine felt it was premature for her to comment extensively on UM's DEI programs, stating, "I haven't had much interaction with them yet."

Jasmine, a freshman from Fort Wayne, Indiana, studies art and design at the University of Michigan.

Regarding the impact on future students' sense of inclusion, Jasmine added, "I don't anticipate a significant change in the level of inclusiveness. The university's commitment to inclusivity likely predates these specific statements. The true measure will be the actual student experience in the coming years."