Let’s talk about Malia Obama, the former first daughter who’s now officially started college. As she embarks on this new chapter at Harvard University, many fans are curious about one specific detail: does she still have Secret Service protection? Well, here’s the scoop—while her dad, Barack Obama, continues to enjoy Secret Service protection, Malia, now 19, no longer walks around with that tight security detail these days.

When Barack and Michelle Obama, the former first couple, moved Malia into her dorm at Harvard this week, the Secret Service was indeed there—but not necessarily for Malia. Technically, their presence was to protect Barack and Michelle. This move marked a pretty normal transition for any parent, but given the Obamas' unique circumstances, the added security presence was expected, even if it wasn’t directly for Malia.

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Why Doesn’t Malia Have Secret Service Anymore?

Back in 2013, former President Barack Obama re-signed an important piece of legislation called the Former Presidents Act. This act ensured that he, along with all future presidents, would receive lifetime Secret Service protection. Prior to this, protection only lasted for 10 years after leaving office, and before 1997, it was a lifetime guarantee. The new law also extends lifetime protection to their spouses, but there’s a catch—it limits protection for children over the age of 16. Since Malia is now over that age limit, she no longer qualifies for Secret Service protection. Meanwhile, her younger sister Sasha just turned 16 this past June, meaning she still falls within the protection window.

Even though Malia is past the age limit, I’m sure her parents, Barack and Michelle, have arranged for some form of security to watch over her while she’s out there in Massachusetts. After all, Harvard isn’t exactly around the corner from home, and as any parent would agree, letting go isn’t easy, especially when you’re sending your kid off to college. The Obamas have been open about their feelings regarding Malia leaving for school, and it’s clear they’re both excited and a little nervous about this next phase in her life.

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Malia spotted in NYC in April 2017 without Secret Service. She’s navigating life like any other young adult now.

Barack and Michelle Reflect on Their Daughters Growing Up

When asked about their daughters growing older, Barack Obama admitted, “It makes no sense. Michelle and I are way too young to have daughters who are both almost in college now. As a parent, I’m a little freaked out.” Before leaving the White House, he shared more about his feelings on this transition. “They’re ready to get out of the nest. We don’t think they’re ready, but they certainly think they’re ready. The fact that their parents’ house is the White House might add to that pressure. But Malia’s going off to college. She’s a grown woman.” It’s clear that while Barack and Michelle are proud of Malia, they’re also experiencing that universal tug-of-war between letting go and holding on just a little longer.

Good luck, Malia! We’re cheering for you as you step into this next chapter of your life.