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It is criminal that serious student-loan reform isn't on the table. As a recent graduate making monthly payments towards a 5-figure principal, I say fuck capping the interest rates. Please cap tuition and fees. Don't give me that BS about how universities need the money. During undergrad, I squatted in a 600 sq. ft. apartment shared with 3 other people. I seriously doubt my health is unaffected by the mold, mildew, vermin, etc. I had to live with every day.
Across the street was the president's mansion(!). He had a team of gardeners, fountains, a gilded mailbox, and some pretty nice carS in the driveway. His army of administrators never worked a minute after 5:00, as evidenced by the steady stream of Bimmers, Benzes, and Lexuses that poured out of the administrative building's parking lot every day at 5:01 pm. Oh BTW, their building was the only one on campus with glass doors, bronze handles, oak furniture, marble floors, etc. Trim the fat, and make the university answer to a more sane market force. |
The primary factor driving tuition rates up is reduced funding from State governments for State Universities and Colleges. Private Universities, of course, keep increasing their tuition rates to keep them at the same level relative to the State schools. Even the state schools (at least those trying to do something besides cut the quality of education and pass the costs on to the students) are getting a significant amount of their budget through private fund-raising.
Of course, when it comes to private funds, it's easy to get someone to pay for a building or renovations if you're willing to put their name on it. You may even get some scholarships for students, some equipment, extra funds for high-profile faculty (or high-profile administrators, in some cases), and many people are willing to donate their time to speak to students as guest lecturers. Good luck getting someone to pay for faculty & staff wages and benefits, though.