| OPINION
| June 28, 2005
Editorial/Our View
Spend Time for Funding
Students should not expect the
government to solve financial problems
Students who need loans have one of the
lowest interest rates in recent history, which has made the sharp
rise in higher education costs more bearable. But Friday, that rate
will increase by at least 2 percent.
The cost of secondary education is rising faster than the rate of
wages, according to a CNN article written earlier this year. The
Legislature also seems to be more interested in pushing students
out of college faster, which makes failing or dropping classes more
difficult for students. The Texas B-On-Time program, approved by
lawmakers, forgives college students who graduate promptly.
Discovering oneself in college is more of a myth for those who have
to rely on those funds.
While statistics show that a college degree can potentially help
a person earn $1 million more than those with just a high school
diploma, over 40 years, the growing burden of debt takes away from
what real money is brought in.
By allowing the increase in student-loan interest rates, our leaders
seem to be asking Americans to seek a life of debt as their only
way to get a better life.
In order for the U.S. to be a great competitor in the global workforce,
we must pursue education.
Consider writing your congressmen. Ask them to increase other higher
education funding options like the Pell Grant and to keep interest
rates reasonable. Tell government officials that the leaders of
today should be expected to help those of tomorrow.
Also, instead of expecting the government to solve problems, look
to other sources.
According to the College Board, the number of grants and other financial
alternatives has never been higher. Its Web site, http://www.collegeboard.com,
as well as http://www.fastweb.com, offer assistance in finding grants
and scholarships for free.
Millions of dollars that go unused every year usually come from
job-specific or otherwise rigid scholarships. Students should still
take the time to do research on money offered by their specific
school.
Just because interest rates are going up doesn’t mean all
hope is lost. Let leaders know your concerns, and in the meantime,
don’t wait around for someone else to find a way to fund your
education.
|
editorial
round-up
The issue:
Interest rates on
student loans will
increase Friday by
at least 2 percent.
We suggest:
Students should write to leaders about loans concerns
and
research other
options to pay for school.
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