There were a few things that impressed me about this discussion. It was clear that the mother and daughter were in this together, and that they were going to make a carefully considered decision. This was not a case of helicopter parenting, but an adult discussion about what might be best for the student and family—particularly important when selecting a college for traditional-age college students. In addition, both the mother and daughter were engaged with the school board. They listened attentively and participated in the give-and-take of the evening’s conversation. People from every walk of life appreciate the cost/value of the college experience. Additionally, people from those same walks of life understand the asphyxiating impact of the increasing costs and debt burdens of a college education. The intersection of cost and value must be attended to by all. A wave of the hand and a response that college is always a good investment is disingenuous at best. It is generally true, but generalities don’t borrow money—individuals do. Borrowing increases as costs increase. Or do costs increase as availability of borrowed funds proliferate? Either way, that which is borrowed is under more scrutiny now than at any time in the history of higher education. If considering a university where cost and value are not carefully attended to, or student and family concerns are overridden by a sales pitch, or an attitude from the university is perceived to be, “Don’t worry, we know what’s best,” visit another campus—live or virtually. People from every walk of life appreciate the cost/value of the college experience. Additionally, people from those same walks of life understand the asphyxiating impact of the increasing costs and debt burdens of a college education. The intersection of cost and value must be attended to by all. A wave of the hand and a response that college is always a good investment is disingenuous at best.
Look for an institution that emulates Childress with a genuine concern for individual students and their families.
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