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Free College
"I believe I have as much of a right to a free, publically funded college education...as I do elementary and high school educations."
By Paul Katzman
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Congress recently tackled the pressing issue of student debt in an attempt to cut interest rates on federally subsidized loans. Now, Youth Radio's Paul Katzman reflects on the high price of college tuition fees that push students to take on so many loans. He thinks college should be free and publically funded, so everyone has an equal shot at a good education. (January 27 on WABE)
As a high school student beginning to look at my college options, I have come to the conclusion that there is something very wrong with our educational system: the cost.
I believe I have as much of a right to a free, publically funded college education...as I do elementary and high school educations. It’s in everyone’s best interest to continue my learning. Universities will offer me the chance to think and develop my mind in ways radically different from high school. College also gives much greater freedom and variety in terms of classes, so I can choose to pursue the best profession for me.
Furthermore, it has become increasingly necessary to have a college education in order to enter a career where you are capable of financially supporting an entire family or even yourself. High quality, stable, well-paying jobs are rare without a college degree.
One of our federal governments’ main functions is to collect tax revenues to fund programs that are beneficial to society as a whole. So it seems logical to warrant as much government funding as possible to higher education. The benefits to our country would be tremendous. Citizens would become less reliant on the government after college and would be much more productive members of society.
Everyone should be able to attend the best public college they qualify for without tuition.
- Youth Radio Atlanta is produced in cooperation with WABE and funded in part by The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.
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