by Helena Yeung, staff reporter
For those looking to expand their education, President Obama has proposed to have free community college offered across the nation. It is a government program that will make a 2-year community college tuition free for millions of students.
Said on January 8th, President Obama’s plan is beneficial because it would motivate many more students to attend college, and help to focus more on education instead of just dropping out.
I his proposal, President Obama vowed to make college more affordable for students in America over the next few years. The intention is to invest about $60 billion dollars to provide free community college for millions of students across the United States. The plan would have a great affect on students, making it easier- especially for high school students, to continue being educated, and continue to afford their education.
“I think this is a good plan. It can give students more ways to think about what they want to do after their high school years. It’s an effective way to save money and have a better education,” math teacher Ms. Apeler said.
According to an article by CNN, Obama’s proposal would help states with saving funds, giving them a rest while the federal government covers around 75% of the costs of community college. If the plan is effective, students will be able to have up to 2-3-year full paid tuition in community college, saving money for students to better afford books, supplies, etc. Students will be eligible as long as they attend school part time or full time during the paid tuition years, and maintain a 2.5 or higher grade point average.
“I think it’s a great place to start with a lot to offer,” guidance counselor Mr.Lumetta said.
The proposal of paying for students to have a 2-3 year community college can be a strong benefit for America as well along the way. If students are more motivated to go to school and continue their education, it can benefit getting better jobs, which would be a support for the economy.
“Obama’s plan can really improve the economy and help build a better education for future America,” sophomore Pedro Maldonado said.
A great problem students have over the years, especially those attending community college, is overlooking free scholarships or even borrowing too much. These actions affects the students badly because students who borrow too much for just community colleges, instead of a four-year college can easily make their lives harder in the future if they decide to attend a four-year college later on financially.
“I don’t think this is a good plan. It might cause new conflicts to the country, and might influence students differently,” junior Stephanie Minassian said.
This plan can lead students to focus on saving and studying for a four-year college near future, and lessen the stress for those who are uncertain about even going to college or not.
“I do like what Obama is planning, and there are plenty of great colleges that offer education for free outside of the United States,” junior Peter Huerta said.
There are countries outside of the United States that do provide free education, such as payment for college. Such example is Germany, who provides no tuition fee and gives students international education to achieve the best.
Obama’s proposal can be a start to opening a more easier path to attending college by offering free tuition at community colleges. It can be a guide to help others plan as well what’s best for students and their education near future years.
