As juniors in high school, my classmates and I have begun researching and visiting potential colleges. However, I have become increasingly aware that some of my friends won’t be attending. This is not because they don’t want to; it is because they cannot afford the tuition. Unfortunately, college is an opportunity denied to many.

Tuition is growing tremendously, and competition is fierce. Many low-income families can’t afford to send their children to college. “Average” students don’t make the cut for scholarships, and most end up with a high school diploma and a low-end job. In turn, these high school graduates cannot finance a college education for their own kids. It’s a never-ending cycle.

How do we help the economy get back on its feet? Make education more accessible and affordable to all citizens. College shouldn’t be a privilege for the wealthy.

Alyssa Turner

Columbia