[zo1]

>"There's also been an increasing competitive push between universities to deliver "country club-esque" experiences to students, which further drives up cost."

That was my impression of University/College. Having only experienced what was shown in movies and the media, I was under the impression that college meant getting your own "apartment with a roommate". Unfortunately, in the non-US university I attended, it meant "4x6" meter room, two beds, two cupboards, two desks, and two-roommates.

Then again, the entire year's tuition did only cost about $3500, about 9 years ago.

[brbsix]

At least in my experience at a UC, the media portrayal was fairly accurate. It seemed like there was a never-ending onslaught of concerts, "multicultural events", sporting events, "community center" activities, safe spaces, Greek events, etcetera (all of which receive school funding in some form or another). I appreciated the occasional guest speaker, but looking around I couldn't help but notice money pouring from everywhere, namely for things that had nothing to do with academics. Far too many administrators with too much time on their hands.

[meric]

I thought the same too. I didn't even have a room, and travelled to class by train from home.