Page 41 - Considering College

There were a few things that impressed me about this discussion. It was clear that the mother and
daughter were in this together, and that they were going to make a carefully considered decision.
This was not a case of helicopter parenting, but an adult discussion about what might be best for

the student and family—particularly important when selecting a college for traditional-age college
students. In addition, both the mother and daughter were engaged with the school board. They

listened attentively and participated in the give-and-take of the evening’s conversation.

People from every walk of life appreciate the cost/value of the college experience. Additionally,

people from those same walks of life understand the asphyxiating impact of the increasing costs
and debt burdens of a college education. The intersection of cost and value must be attended to by

all. A wave of the hand and a response that college is always a good investment is disingenuous at
best. It is generally true, but generalities don’t borrow money—individuals do. Borrowing

increases as costs increase. Or do costs increase as availability of borrowed funds proliferate?
Either way, that which is borrowed is under more scrutiny now than at any time in the history of

higher education.

People from every walk of life appreciate the cost/value of the college experience.

Additionally, people from those same walks of life understand the asphyxiating

impact of the increasing costs and debt burdens of a college education. The
intersection of cost and value must be attended to by all. A wave of the hand

and a response that college is always a good investment is disingenuous at best.

If considering a university where cost and value are not carefully attended to, or student and
family concerns are overridden by a sales pitch, or an attitude from the university is perceived to
be, “Don’t worry, we know what’s best,” visit another campus—live or virtually.

Look for an institution that emulates Childress with a genuine concern for individual students and

their families.