In light of the ongoing presidential debates, the subject of tuition costs has become a popular topic of discussion. I, being the college student I am, have taken a particular interest in this subject, and have in turn heard and read a wide variety of different opinions. After careful consideration of both sides, I firmly believe that public universities should offer free tuition, at least for in-state students. While I do see the point of those opposing free tuition, I think that some major points are being overlooked.
It seems that the majority of those arguing against free tuition claim that going to college is a privilege that has to be earned through hard work. They say that by working hard in high school, students can pay for college through winning academic scholarships. This is a good point, however, I think it is wrongly being assumed that all students have the ability to easily achieve good grades and, in turn, scholarships with "a little hard work." There are a large percentage of high school students who have obstacles blocking them from achieving the grades that will get them the scholarships to pay for their college. Some students live in tumultuous environments and are being abused or are having to take care of siblings because their parents are neglectful, and they simply do not have the option to study and focus on grades. For these kids, college is their only chance to escape the cycle of abuse and neglect, but the overbearing costs of tuition and fees makes it impossible.
There are also those students struggling with mental illness who, while extremely intelligent, cannot easily focus and do what it takes to make the grades needed to earn academic scholarships. These students are not lazy or not willing to work hard, they are just inhibited and do not have the ability to pay multiple thousands to attend college.
Another major point made by those against free tuition is that mostly children from upper class or more well off families attend college, so free tuition would primarily benefit those who can already afford it. This point is very true, but I think it is being looked at from the wrong angle. We should be more focused on why high school students from low-income households do not attend college. The answer is simple: low-income households cannot afford to send a child to college. Free tuition would allow these students unlimited access to higher education without putting a burden on their families.
The fact of the matter is that there is a large number of intelligent and promising individuals in this country who don't have the means to attend college. These people should not be denied a higher education because they were not privileged with the means to make good grades and earn scholarships.
