There are different opportunities to make education affordable

Fabienne Fleurantin/Staff Writer

Student debt. Yikes.

That’s probably one of the scariest things no student wants to have following them for the rest of their life.

There are some situations where student loans are necessary to finish one’s education, but is it worth it? Senior psychology major Melissa Alzamora thinks so.

“Taking out loans can help a lot of students but it all depends on how much loans you receive and if you spend responsibly,” Alzamora said.

When I transferred to FIU, I decided to take out loans because I wouldn’t able to pay for my education otherwise. Although I have scholarships and grants, it wasn’t enough to pay for my tuition.

I am not happy about it. I wanted to do my undergrad without the fear of a growing money monster lingering behind me for the rest of my days. Now I worry that the more time I let pass, the higher my bill will be and I will not be able to pay off my student debt.

Alzamora does not believe the University is fair in terms of charging students for unnecessary fees in their tuition.

“I don’t think FIU provides enough opportunity for students that don’t have money. My reasons are the following: As an FIU student, I have to pay for things I don’t need, such as the gym, parking, and health services,” she said. “These extra fees I have to pay for are unfair because I will never utilize them. The money would be better spent on my classes and books. Many times, I must pay out of pocket because I had to pay for unnecessary services.”

However, tuition is three times less here and more affordable for students than the U.S. average.

According to trends in higher education, tuition and fees in a public four-year institution are averaged annually at $9,650 for in-state students. For out-of-state students, it is priced at $24,930.

FIU’s annual rate for education is $6,160 for Florida residents, and $18,566 for non-Florida residents, according to onestop.fiu.edu.

Plus, FIU has more than $180 million in financial aid each year, according to the Admissions Office.

FIU offers many alternatives for students who may not be able to pay for their education and gives the necessary tools to succeed. There are merit-based scholarships for freshmen, namely the Presidential and Ambassador scholarships, offered to students who show outstanding achievements in academics.

There are also national recognition programs for students who have taken the PSAT and have demonstrated high academic achievements.  All of this and more information can be found on admission.fiu.edu.

In addition, the University offers work study programs, which help students earn a portion of their educational expenses through employment on and off campus.

So, for those who are wondering if it’s worth it to get an education, it is. There are so many opportunities offered to students who are willing to take the time and effort to look for them. Don’t let your chance at an education pass you by. Go out and get it.

 

DISCLAIMER:

The opinions presented within this page do not represent the views of FIU Student Media Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect individual perspectives of contributing writers and/or members of the University community.

 

Image retrieved from Flickr.