College tuition is a rather common topic for discussion nowadays. With issues like student debt, quality of education, and extra expenses, there have been multiple arguments for it being either free or paid. Both sides express some valid concerns, as they fear how either of the options may affect future generations of students and the economy itself. The following text will review both views and come to a conclusion.
One of the primary concerns regarding the outcomes regarding tuitions is that if it is free, the importance of education may decline. There is a risk that students may become more negligent towards their classes and grades. That can be explained by the possible invalidation of college education due to the easy access (Andersen, 2022). Another concern is that if students stop paying for college, the quality of education may decrease. Salaries may be lowered, the equipment may be outdated, and the campus may lack suitable upkeep. This emphasizes the complexity of the issue, as some disadvantages may be inevitable.
However, there are some severe disadvantages to paid college tuitions as well. Primarily, while students have the opportunity to loan money to pay for their education, it has caused great damage. Currently, nearly 45 million Americans owe 1.7 trillion USD in debt (Hess, 2021). This has resulted in a student loan crisis, which is currently damaging the US economy. Second, due to the high debts, young people are less likely to contribute and partake in the latter (Hess, 2021). According to chief economist Richardson, without the widespread chances for investment, there will be “slower growth from the prime-aged working population” (Hess, 2021, para 12). Finally, there is a specific default set for tuition payment. If it is not abided, financial delinquencies may later follow. Thus, the student will have fewer opportunities for partaking in the economy.
Having reviewed the issue from both sides, I have come to the conclusion that college tuition should be free at all public colleges and universities, as it may benefit America’s economy. More people will be able to contribute to it, helping the country prosper. This measure will help resolve the inequities that are currently ongoing due to student debt. After it is taken, students will have a higher chance at equal access to education, while no longer struggling financially.
References
Andersen, E. (2022). Why Should College Be Free? College Raptor. Web.
Hess, A. J. (2021). 3 ways student debt impacts the economy. CNBC. Web.