Shane Wade
Opinion Editor
We have finally arrived at the end of a long semester, and for some of us, the end of our academic careers. A number of us head off into the “real world,” where a growing number of college graduates waste away in their parents’ home, unemployed, underemployed, in debt and seeking their very own “Great Perhaps.”
It is the great fear of unemployment, and the results of this tragedy, that brought me to college, and it is that same great fear that keeps me here.
In high school, we were promised that college and higher education was the way to go. The mantra still beats in my head to this day. Any divergence from “I’m going to such-and-such university” resulted in judging eyes. Coming out of high school and into college, we were promised the American Dream.
Sooner, rather than later, the dream will end if action isn’t taken.
More and more students are waking up to a nightmare. Student loans and debts rack up. The stress of maxing out on credit hours in order to graduate sooner causes mental breakdowns. We’re forced to choose between having a relaxing college life and rushing out of here, missing valuable experiences and opportunities.
But to what end do I preach? It’s time for a serious, adult discussion about the value of a college education in America, and what said education should entail. It’s time to reexamine course and degree requirements. It’s time for schools to stop selling college to the American middle class as a proverbial “get out of jail” free card.
When President Obama comes to speak at the Siegel Center later this week, he’ll come touting the necessity for our “do nothing” Congress, but recent history has shown us that movement from the Republican Party is unlikely. Democrats, too, are too lackluster politicians to do anything.
If you want an accurate view on how politicians view the price of a college education, look no further than the party leaders talking points: While Romney tells college students to borrow money from their parents, Obama urges college administrators to make cuts and for Congress to prevent student-loan interest rates from doubling. One shows actual concern about the cost of colleges and the other asks you to pass the buck.
The disparity must be fixed. The day college becomes a luxury available to only those that can afford it is the day that the middle class dies.
I began the academic year discussing the necessity for this dialogue to begin and for action to be taken, and I stand by that belief. Throughout this year, VCU students have shown time and time again that we stand for something and that we have the courage of our convictions.
When President Obama comes here four days from now, let him and the nation know that you are not passive. Let them know that you won’t accept being buried in debt. Let them know that you want to be part of a strong, bona fide middle class.
Be heard. CT