President Barack Obama talked about the ‘daunting’ cost of college during his State of the Union address Tuesday night. He outlined a few specific problems with the higher education system and said it’s important for college to no longer be a luxury.

While it would be nice to see college become an affordable option for all, it is — with this economy — too idealistic. Obama’s speech did not lay out specific plans to cut college tuition costs or increase work-study jobs, both of which are necessary, he said.

He charged Congress to stop college loan interest rates from doubling in July, but he did not say how. He said the tuition tax credit should be extended, but he did not explain how that would be feasible, either.

By bringing up higher education in his speech, Obama made education a priority and prompted a conversation on reducing the cost. With this conversation, the question of how to make higher education more affordable may be answered. But the State of the Union address did not give a clear explanation of what entity should be responsible for answering these questions.

Given the current economy, having a college degree seems to be more necessary than ever. If this trend continues, coupled with the poor economy, something needs to be done to make college more accessible.

As current college students, Obama’s speech reminds us to be thankful of the opportunities we already have. We are already enrolled in a university. Though some of what Obama said may not apply directly to us, things such as tuition hikes and college loan rates are relevant. Obama’s speech should inspire and prompt us to do more research on the costs of college education.

Syracuse University offers a financial aid literacy program to help students navigate a confusing system. Students must take advantage of the systems in place because while it would be nice for college to become a luxury for everyone, it is not a realistic expectation.  

Published on January 25, 2012 at 12:00 pm

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