It has long been held that education is the key to success. Recent decades have seen more and more individuals from all walks of life attending college, learning the skills and abilities necessary to be competitive in the global economy. Employers are demanding higher levels of expertise from their new hires, leading to a situation where anyone who lacks postsecondary education is at a severe disadvantage in the workplace. The pursuit of knowledge after high school, however, comes with a price. Along with four -year institutions, community colleges charge tuition to students that may exceed their ability to pay. When they are able to pay, the debt they incur while in school may be a large burden in comparison to the wages the earn in entry-level jobs. The cost of college is more than some can bear but because employers demand Associate’s degrees at higher and higher rates, community college tuition should be free for all students.
The American economy isn’t what it used to be (Goldrick-Rab and Kelly). Decades ago, individuals graduating high school with twelve years of public education could find employment earning a living wage with little trouble. Many times, these individuals would remain employed by the …show more content…
Many people cannot afford tuition, fees, and textbooks required for college attendance, even with financial assistance through grants and scholarships (Goedde). Those who do attend often take out student loans to finance their education, creating debt that will need to be repaid during years when the individual earns low wages in entry level positions. Because the cost of attendance is prohibitive, many choose not to pursue postsecondary education at the community college level at all. This limits their potential to land positions as well as their future earnings outlook. Many people are being left behind in the employment world due to their inability to afford college (Goldrick-Rab and
The American economy isn’t what it used to be (Goldrick-Rab and Kelly). Decades ago, individuals graduating high school with twelve years of public education could find employment earning a living wage with little trouble. Many times, these individuals would remain employed by the …show more content…
Many people cannot afford tuition, fees, and textbooks required for college attendance, even with financial assistance through grants and scholarships (Goedde). Those who do attend often take out student loans to finance their education, creating debt that will need to be repaid during years when the individual earns low wages in entry level positions. Because the cost of attendance is prohibitive, many choose not to pursue postsecondary education at the community college level at all. This limits their potential to land positions as well as their future earnings outlook. Many people are being left behind in the employment world due to their inability to afford college (Goldrick-Rab and