Over the last two decades, the cost of attending a four year college has grown more rapidly than inflation and family income. The average tuition at a public four-year college has increased by more than 250 percent over the past three decades, while incomes for typical families grew by only 16 percent.
Most of the students in the AHS community, come from a middle class family. Even though they are living comfortably, a constant topic of discussion in everyone’s house, is ususally how they are going to be able to afford all of the college tuitions.
Even though money won’t hold anyone back from the colleges they apply to and eventually decide on going, there are some students out there who are thinking otherwise. There are a good amount of students who have taken up two jobs, while still taking IB classes, just so they can save up for college. With such a burden on a high school student, some students just don’t end up going to college.
Financial Aid is the first option that comes to everyone’s mind. But the amount of annual family income is usually always going to be higher than the limit set by financial aid. Unless you are living in a low income house, you won’t be aided for college. According to CNN Money, Since 1992, the maximum available through government-subsidized student loans has remained at $23,000 for a four-year degree. The amount of money financial aid even offers is no where close to the amount a full four year college tuition would cost.
If we advocate so much about education at such a young age, shouldn’t the government be doing something to help those who have come as far as completing high school?
According to President Barack Obama, he plans on making an effort to make sure student debt remains the same, promoting innovation and competition and paying for performance. Yes, Obama has had many discussions about how he will be making college tuitions much cheaper and more affordable for every student, but when is that really happening? If college tuitions are rocketing, shouldn’t his plans be coming out soon also?
Student loans are eventually the answer, but in reality we all know loans are nothing, but stress in every way.