Story by Logan Tromp, Opinion Columnist
With class registration for next school year drawing close and midterms being completed, many students’ eyes are on the next school year. There are numerous changes occurring on campus, and with the ongoing selection of a new provost and the block schedule vote happening at the end of the semester, many students are wondering what next semester will look like for them. One topic every college student has on their mind is finances. It is no secret that college is expensive, and as President Córdoba stated in an email late February, college expenses will begin increasing for Aquinas College Students.
In her email President Córdoba stated, “Tuition rates for the 2024–2025 academic year will increase by approximately 4.5% for traditional undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education students. Housing and food rates will increase by approximately 6.25%. These decisions were not made lightly. The Catholic and Dominican tradition of higher education compels us to ensure excellence in service, care, accommodation, and responsible financial stewardship. This increase enables us to do so.”
As with all price increases, the consumer is never happy to have to fork out more of their hard-earned money. It would be nice if costs stayed the same everywhere, even outside of college. This sadly is not the world we live in. As inflation increases, prices increase along with it. Naturally, college prices increase as well. In fact, this is quite a common occurrence. Every year college prices go up in some aspect for the student. It shouldn’t be a surprise that Aquinas College’s expenses also increase as they also have to keep the lights on.
While it’s never enjoyable to pay more money for school, it’s understandable why such decisions are being made. On a good note, there are several ways to help cover the increased costs for next year. President Córdoba also included in her email that “there have been several changes to the FAFSA that could be beneficial to you. We recommend you file your FAFSA prior to May 1, 2024 to ensure you receive the maximum amount of financial aid, even if you have not previously filed. For information on costs, please visit our webpage on Tuition Costs. For information on payment plans, visit Student Accounts or contact the Student Accounts office by calling (616) 632-2864, texting (616) 229-3485, or emailing studentaccounts@aquinas.edu.”
While it may seem daunting when looking at the bill, there are opportunities out there, but you do need to take hold of them.
Featured Image courtesy of Grace Malec
The Saint 