Abigail Bissell
Paying for college starts off with saving your pennies. Putting a little money aside each month can help cover basic costs, such as books or supplies.
Controversy surrounds whether the government should forgive student debt or not. Some see loan forgiveness as a path to opportunity, while others warn of its financial consequences. For many students already balancing the costs of college and for those who have faced the burden of repayment, the issue is deeply personal.
Many students agreed that the government should not forgive student debt. It is a personal choice to continue education, and you should be prepared to pay for it, even though it can be difficult.
“I think it is your own decision ultimately, and you are expected to be an adult and take care of your responsibilities. You make your decisions. Therefore, you have to live with the consequences,” junior Haven Ottinger said.
Life can have some unexpected turns. Students often pursue higher education and are not prepared for the cost that comes with it.
“It depends on if you know what you’re getting yourself into, how much school is and [if] you know that you can’t afford it,” senior Avery Heil said. “If you thought you could do it and then circumstances change, like something big happens, then I feel like it’s different [from] if you had the money to and wanted to keep going.”
Many students noted that higher education would be hard work, but it is manageable.
“I think I would definitely have to get a job and work a lot of hours to cover those costs in addition to working my college classes, but it would be feasible,” Ottinger said.
This idea of persistence and personal responsibility echoed throughout the discussion. While scholarships and dedication can ease the path, the question of who should ultimately pay for college remains. For some, like Dual Enrollment Advisor Todd McNeil, the answer is simple.
“If someone else is paying for theirs, why should I not pay for mine?” McNeil said.
If you want to continue your education, you have to be prepared to pay the cost, be responsible and have expectations for yourself.