I think I speak for some students when I say, “I’m disappointed that tuition is going up again.”
Last semester, the university announced that it would increase tuition by $10; however, this semester the administration decided to add another $3 to the other $10 increase. Resulting in students having to pay an additional $13 for each semester hour.
I attended the designated tuition hearing held during mid February and was disappointed to see low student turnout.
I spoke to a couple of students after the hearing.
“My concern is the lack of notification,” said Martha Treviño, a graduate student.
Students did not get an email notifying them of the first two meetings about the increase. At the time, faculty was sent email “urging” students to attend the hearing.
However, students did not receive an email to their accounts telling them of the meeting. But the unviersity sent out a notificiation of a third meeting on Feb. 25.
“With something as criticial as this issue why didn’t they inform us?” questioned Treviño.
However, the lack of notification is not the only concern.
“It’s going to effect a lot of students,” said Treviño. She said worried about the financial burden being placed on students who pay their way through college and wonders what other options have been looked at.
Another student at the meeting voiced another concern.
“Is this increase a direct effect of the fee failure?” asked Rodolfo Morales, SGA president.
Morales was told the $3 increase has nothing to do with the rejected $2 athletic fee and $1 rec sports fee students voted against last semester.
After the meeting, students pointed out the athletic and rec sports fee would have totaled $3 and now the tuition is being increased $3.
Adminstration officials said it would not be used towards athletics, but students are stilled concerned.
There are the facts. See them as you will.
But one thing is undeniable. The increase will create a financial burden.
Not all students are on scholarships or financial aid and have to work their way through college.
Yes, the university has the lowest tuition in the Texas A&M system, but if you look back through the years the fees and tuition have steadily risen. Of course you have to increase sometimes in order to keep up with the growth, but don’t forget about the students struggling to make enough to come here.
-Jennifer Torres