Summer II 2013: What are the major concerns of students today (or, what are the concerns of the various students who are taking this introduction to government class during the Summer II 2013 term)?

[Jeff Farrah]

How should the government (President, Congress, and the Supreme Court) respond (or not respond)  to the various problems identified by students?  How important are the two major political parties (the Republicans and the Democrats) in responding (or not responding) to the various problems identified? 

[Amanda Burns]

The number one thing every student has on their mind is how will they afford their college education ad what jobs will be available after they graduate. The government should have more grants available to help us with our books and tuition and creating more jobs waiting for us after we graduate.

[Semira Ponjevic]

I agree 100% on that, most students worries are on college tuition and wether they will be able to afford it or not even if they receive FAFSA, sometimes it doesn't even cover 50% of their tuition and that is a main concern for them and their families if they don't have the finances to send their child off to college. If the students receive more grants then they could concentrate more on their studies, instead some students have two jobs at times to stay on top of loans and daily living as well. 

[Ishamia Bester]

Some Concerns are..

After Obama Term is up will we still be able to attend college

Will Minimum wage really increase to $9 an hour

Will financial aid still be rewarded to those that qualify

The government should really look into our concerns because we are the individuals that holds the future of the world. Our generation is approaching fast and effectively. Soon we will be all the doctors, police officers, court judges, jurors, law enforcers, etc. They need to pay attention to our needs. The republicans and democrats are two most very significant teams. I support democrats not that there is anything wrong with republicans, i'm just a democrat girl. Democrats are more of a team, verses republicans. Dem's are for the common good and is chose by the people so the people of our nation are being accommodated all the way around. The response of these two parties are also significant because they really make the stuff happen.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[krapf...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think that the major concerns of students are what will we have in the future. Will all that we are working for be there. Will the Earth be safe to live? Will the owrld be better for our children? Also, what can we do now to make the future have a chance.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[krapf...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think they can respond by doing something now. Help us make the furture better. Make stricter laws to protect the environment.  

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[vici....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

When thinking of their future every student hopes that their education will be their key to success, but what happens when that isn't even enough. How will we know what the economy is going to be like by the time we end up achieving our goals and receiving our diplomas? The thing is we don't and us as students should take a higher stand in politics, whether we be democratic or republic. Too many of us just don't pay any attention at all and let things be the way that they are because we think someone else is taking care of it. More students need to pay attention to what is going on with our economy and the problems that are not being taken care of, since it is effecting our future.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[Gabrielle Sharfner]

I believe that the biggest concern for students today is finacial aid and/or the actual cost for college. In order to further your education you have to be able to afford to pay for classes. With tuition rising everyday students are now becoming more worried about being able to pay for their education. Another concern is finding jobs after graduation. After spending so much money on obtaining a degree only to find that you can not even find a job because they just aren't available.

The government could respond by finding ways around the rising prices of tuition and the interest on loans. I'm not sure exactly what could be done but more jobs need to open up across the country. As far as political parties I do not really see a line between who should/could do what, I believe that it is a group effort even though sometimes there may be different views. Ultimately everyone should have some interest in college students and their concerns.

[Reagan Call]

When I was 18 years old I applied for student aid and I was denied because my parents made "too much" money. However, neither of my parents had any intention of helping me financially with school. I was in a situation where the government saw me as a person who had financial support when in actuality I did not. I'm not sure if this problem still exists because it was ten years ago when this happened. If it is still going on today, then I feel bad for those experiencing it. I do hope that lawmakers( Republicans and Democrats) consider these things when deciding who should qualify for financial aid.

 

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[cardon...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

My biggest problem is outstanding student loan debt. In addition, I am disabled and don't work, and I only get a set amount per month from Social Security, so I can only take one class per semester. I'm thinking of applying for student loans again, but I don't know how that might affect my current loans. Otherwise, the fact that many students have no health insurance bothers me greatly. You can't be an effective learner if you're not healthy.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[angie....@gmail.com]

One of the main concerns students face is whether or not we will be able to afford tuition and if we will have any jobs available to us after college, also the issue of paying off student loans; I still know many adults who are paying off their student loans and I find that nerve-wracking. It would be helpful if the government placed more importance on education, and I find it astonishing that more importance isn't placed on it, considering the future of the country resides in the hands of its citizens, and it definitely helps if they are educated. It would help if more federal grants were made available to us. If we want an education I feel we should have more of a right to that, especially considering it is not just for the betterment of the individual, but for the country as a whole if we have educated, able workers. I do realize that it may be more complicated than I realize, but all in all I feel that a massive importance should be placed on education. 

I cannot honestly say that I know much of what the two major political parties in the US say about students' concerns, though from what I have read and seen it seems that Republicans are less likely to support helping students financially. 

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[angie....@gmail.com]

I previously didn't think of environmental protection as a concern pertaining to students, but I see how it can be and I definitely support the concept. 

[clark...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I agree with plenty of the responses, as a student I worry about the economy getting worst and not being able to afford the rest of my college education. What if tuition rates increase and interest rates increase more then they already have; when I graduate will I be able to pay them off?        

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[gBaby p]

One of the main concerns are employment after completion, if they will be able to invest in social security, and what does the future hold for them.  Back in the day, it was almost a guaranteed that a college graduate would be gainfully employed upon completion, those statistics do not apply in today's society.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[thomas....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[hazen.m...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I have had similar issues with being denied financial aid and being seen as someone who didn't need financial assistance. I make it on my own dollar and can't receive any help and just do with what I can. My parents can't afford to keep up with everything and my schooling. It's sad that you can't receive any assistance when trying to use it in a positive way to make your life better. In other instances they pass it out like candy. 

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[Andrew Baker]

One of the issues I've dealt with is whether or not a college degree is worth pursuing. Jobs that used to be readily available for graduates are being filled by people with more experience. There also seems to be a huge influx of college students, which makes the job hunt more difficult. There are simply too many people with degrees all fighting for the same jobs, to a point where the validity of that degree comes into question. If everyone has one, what's it really worth? There are also fields where a degree serves little to no purpose in terms of acquiring a job. The food industry, for example, values experience and skill. 

This poses a problem for people considering the time and money spent pursuing a college degree. Will the effort I put forth even be recognized when I'm finished, or am I better off getting a job now and working my way up? Obviously, certain jobs require a degree because of a technical aspect in the field. But there are also countless career paths out there where a degree only seems to better your chance of success, rather than guarantee it. Self-education and experience can provide the same future as a college degree, for far less money.

[Betina Le Colas]

I was also denied due to the fact that FASFA said that my parents should be able to afford my college education and beyond however they don't take into consideration the fact that my parents paid for their own schooling and thought that I should too. I live on my own, work two jobs however because I am not graduated or 24 yet I am still considered dependent on my parents. The government can start to help by not raising the interest rate on school loans when obviously the people who have school loans is because of the fact that they cannot afford school on their own. Going to school should be rewarded and not penalized when a person has to go through other means to afford their education

[costine...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I believe that finance is a huge issue of students today.  The cost of college tuition is constantly rising and it's getting harder for students to pay for classes.  Some choose to save money by not purchasing the text books, which are very important for success in the classes.  Also, it's not guaranteed that you will get a job after obtaining a degree and a lot of money was put into going to school.  I think that the federal government should make providing more grant-based aid a priority.  Without grants, many students wouldn't be able to attend college.  They wouldn't have to worry so much about money issues and be able to concentrate on their studies.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[jhel...@gmail.com]

I have to agree that the cost of college was my greatest concern. I didnt have the money so i joined the military. They made it seem like all your financial college needs would be met with your G.I. bill. The first two schools and programs i tried to do was not covered by the Gi bill. I had to settle for a degree i really didnt even want. I barely make rent and each month with the housing money provided by the GI bill. and only have 3 years to use my GI bill before it runs out. how am i gonna have time to work if i am taking as many classes as possible every semester for 3 years trying to get as much out of the GI bill as i can?

[angie....@gmail.com]

Another topic definitely worth concern here is students who are veterans. It's not fair that after serving many soldiers have to come back to this, it's not fair that if they want a college degree it is difficult to get when they should definitely be compensated for their service. 

[lucy mccarroll]

Education always was the biggest priority for almost everyone. Intellect is motive force for society and I am sure that the government has to start pay more attention to students needs.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

[dobbs.a...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think that the government should have more oppurtunities for students to have jobs when they do graduate from college. I also think there should be more oppurtunities for people that do not go to collegeto take some type of trade where they can work at a decent wage. I think that government should also look into offering more grants and oppurtunities for people to pay for college or trade school.

[hazen.m...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think there should be assistance on campus for students who are looking for jobs that have degrees.  I think that even if campuses are not having luck finding their students jobs there should be some sort of reimbursement on taxes for the ones who pay out pocket.  It is not fair for people to spend time and money at an educational facility and not earn what they work hard for.  We are all in school and taking classes hoping we all receive a treat at the end but what if we can't get one. All the educational institutions will tell you all these fields are booming and expected to grow but are they really?

[Christian Adenås]

I think the government should abstain from increasing the minimum wage. The economy is still in a fragile stage and we still need unemployment rates to go down. A higher minimum wage will make it harder for employers to hire more people. Fewer job opportunities mean higher unemployment rates.

[Christian Adenås]

Student loans should have lower interest rates. I believe the government should develop a program to be able to offer students securities at a better price than what's offered on the market today. We are all brought to this world under different financial levels; but everyone should have the opportunity to acquire a college education without being robbed by greedy financial institutions. 

[johnson.c...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

In my opinion the main concerns for students is being able to receive enough funding to achieve their college education; along with being able to maintain a day to day life while paying off student loans. The government should respond to the various problems identified by students by taking the initiative to think about all the colleges as a whole not just the prestigious colleges. In doing so they will see that students at standard yet known colleges around the US have the same concerns compared to the prestigious college students. The important factor that affects the response to the world wide issue of students being able to basically keep their heads above water solely depends on which political party responds. The Democrats respond for the good of the many and the Republicans respond for the good of few. Resulting in, families that would consider themselves upper middle class or high class republicans struggle with their education expenses just as the working lower class and middle class families with students.

[lucy mccarroll]

I agree with the most that finance is the most serious concern for today's student. In my opinion, free access to textbooks and class materials can be one of the ways to help out the students. Every year textbooks are being changed, edited, or replaced, so students have to buy new books every semester instead of having an option to rent them. I think the students should have an option to rent the books and then return them to the school or college library by the end of semester. Compared to the cost of the one semester class, the cost of the books is ridiculous.

[marogi...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

in my opinion, most students are worried to take student loans, because they dont know if they will be able to pay back later on. in most middle eastern countries, school is for free even colleges, but the studying was a lot harder then it is here in the United States. in my opinion college and university should all be free for students because not everyone can pay to go to school

[Semira Ponjevic]

There is no knowing on what will happen once Obama leaves the White House and a new president is elected. We can only hope that things stay the same let alone get better. Some people oppose the FAFSA services and thoughts of cutting it could arise for the next leader of our country, but hopefully who ever they are has some strong beliefs for it. 

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 1:25:23 PM UTC-4, Ishamia Bester wrote:

Some Concerns are..

After Obama Term is up will we still be able to attend college

Will Minimum wage really increase to $9 an hour

Will financial aid still be rewarded to those that qualify

The government should really look into our concerns because we are the individuals that holds the future of the world. Our generation is approaching fast and effectively. Soon we will be all the doctors, police officers, court judges, jurors, law enforcers, etc. They need to pay attention to our needs. The republicans and democrats are two most very significant teams. I support democrats not that there is anything wrong with republicans, i'm just a democrat girl. Democrats are more of a team, verses republicans. Dem's are for the common good and is chose by the people so the people of our nation are being accommodated all the way around. The response of these two parties are also significant because they really make the stuff happen.

[Anjelica Dudek]

There should be discounts and lower fees/prices for students, no matter what school they're attending, as long as they are attending regularly. The two political parties should work together (and STOP PICKING FIGHTS WITH EACH OTHER FOR ONCE) to reward these people to continue on with their education, instead of punishing them, so to say, with high prices on tuition, books, etc.

[hutcheso...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

Students need to be concerned about money to cover the expenses college offers.  The new interests rates regulations and the inflation in the cost of tuition can cause students to drop out because they can't afford to pay for college.  The United States government seems to find more ways to make America cover their own education and let's not get on healthcare; whereas they help other countries develop better education system. I question why are Americans more afraid of the government, and in other countries like England the government is more afraid of its citizens.  The government needs to reassure America that they are trying to help its people; by continuously taking from your people you're only making the country weak and unstable.  I also think that it doesn't matter whether you're a republican or a democrat; the system fights for the system not what color you represent.  Republicans and Democrats need to learn to fight against the system together instead of against each other.

[hutcheso...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I agree the two political parties need to stand together and realize instead of fighting each other we need to fight the system(government). The saying two can be as bad as one... meaning that if we stand together we might can be content with each other as long as we both get pacified in the end!

[slw...@gmail.com]

I do not agree with you that there is one factor the "solely" determines whether or not students can "keep their heads above water".  As you have put it, the fault is totally on the Republican party.  I would love to hear your defense of this statement. 

You have not held responsible the institutions who continue to raise tuition, fees and housing costs, the textbook publishers who continue to raise book prices, the students who choose to use any surplus of money for parties and social events, the organizations that do not offer scholarships fairly by considering achievement and accomplishments without regard for race, and the current administration who, though they say these things are concerning are having an equal amount of trouble changing them.  I do not place blame on either party entirely or on any individual, "sole", reason.  The system has to be re-evaluated and changed.  Offering more money to students to throw at an institution whose costs continue to go up will not solve the problem for the student.  It is all relative.  If more money is given and tuition continues to go up, the student is not better off at the end of their schooling.  How about some university driven benefits for students who excel and continue to excel, for students who work and continue to excel, for students who make a difference in the community and continue to excel?  Give motivated students an opportunity to be rewarded for their effort and performance.   

[Patricia Scarber]

In my opinion as a student and a mother of college students I have discovered that some major concerns consist of the ability to afford to continue the furtherance of education and the worry of being able to secure employment that will help a student pay back student loans in a timely manner. I would like to see something put in place for students who graduate with a degree be able to receive some type of debt forgiveness if they maintain a certain GPA throughout the entirety of their educational pursuit or even a program that would place each student with a successful mentor in their field of study as to give them a greater chance toward effectively executing their goals. There are times when students know what they want to do but they are not aware of how to do it.

[ross.ta...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 7:38:01 AM UTC-7, Jeff Farrah wrote:

How should the government (President, Congress, and the Supreme Court) respond (or not respond)  to the various problems identified by students?  How important are the two major political parties (the Republicans and the Democrats) in responding (or not responding) to the various problems identified?

 

 

 They should respond by lowering the cost of school and for school loans. They should respond by giving the students what they ask especially if its concering ones education.  

It is very important for the Republicans and Democrats to respond cause they are the house and the only way anything can be done is through these Democrats and Republicans thats in the house. They have to stand as one for any problems to be resolved but I know that is merely an illusion.

[katie hadrian]

I believe that a lot of students struggle with new ways to find and try to fund for their college tuition.  I believe that the government should be more sensitive to students/families situations on trying to receive money. Also, the government should lower interest rate in the loans, making it easier for to pay back loans. Another idea is for students to get loans is they need to be an American citizen.  It's not fair for the citizen to be denied loans while others who are not citizens get them.  It's just unethical!  A problem I had when I got out of high school was getting approved for a loan, because I was getting denied for not having any credit.  There should be some way to make it easier for students entering college right out of high school to get an easy way of forming credit.

[thegoodk...@gmail.com]

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

How should the government (President, Congress, and the Supreme Court) respond (or not respond)  to the various problems identified by students?  How important are the two major political parties (the Republicans and the Democrats) in responding (or not responding) to the various problems identified? 

 

Students of today struggle with their tuition, but what happens when our generation has kids? We are then faced with having to save for tuition for the next generation of college students and the government can help us with this. They can pass a bill to ensure that tuition isn't raised for future students. Our president can sign this bill and ensure our generation and generations to come that tuition will be managable.  

[Andrew Baker]

Many students struggle to pay tuition. It is difficult to pay for textbooks and classes when the majority of your paycheck is spent on supporting yourself and your family. The government needs to do a better job at maintaining reasonable college rates and assisting those who cannot afford school. Education is the basis of the future, so it seems contradictory to limit people because of fiscal situations. Everyone should have the opportunity to pursue a degree. Lower tuition rates and more government assistance will make education more available and create a better environment for society.

[Reagan Call]

What about teachers wages? If tuition remains static then how will colleges and universities stay solvent as cost of living rises and their employees require more money to sustain themselves? Should the government then subsidize the pay for ALL employees of ALL universities? This is not an easy problem to solve. Where does the constitution or the bill of rights state that everyone is ENTITLED an education? I agree that the "pursuit of happiness" is a difficult one and that the way it is pursued changes from time to time, but it was never meant to be easy.

[dbou...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

i agree with you. the money for college is sometimes the biggest issue for students trying to get an education. the government should have more grants and should help up with our tuition, and with any other school related issues. Jobs should be available after graduation without worry but sadly this is not the case.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 12:56:17 PM UTC-4, Amanda Burns wrote:

The number one thing every student has on their mind is how will they afford their college education ad what jobs will be available after they graduate. The government should have more grants available to help us with our books and tuition and creating more jobs waiting for us after we graduate.

[marogi...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

 I totally agree with you. I think students should have discounts or have their education for free because of the money issue and some people cant afford going to school, they will not go to school and they wont get the education they always dreamed of having.

[katie hadrian]

I think another major issue the government needs to stop is granting felons free tuition.  It's not fair for the students who work hard and get nothing from financial aid.  But meanwhile, if someone commits a crime and they "want to better themselves" they can go to school for free.  I do not think that is right and that should be changed!

[katie hadrian]

I like your thought process with of the government pay for professors of universities! It's a great idea! Even if the government paid some portion of the teachers salaries then some of the tuition would go down at least!

[patterso...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

One of my biggest concerns is being able to pay back my loans when I graduate. There just aren't enough jobs out there and I don't want to be stuck with a mountain of debt that I will never be able to pay off. Although the cost of tuition is high, I think that government should focus on jobs for graduates. Otherwise, we spent all that time and money in school for nothing.

[embree....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I feel the most important issue for students is survival. Everything is very expensive which makes it hard to focus solely on school because you also have finical responsibility that if neglected will only make continuing your education ten times harder. I feel that todays president can identify with middle class struggle when it comes to education because he to was one in the same shoes.

[Anthony Cobb]

One major problem students encounter is finding a job in their field post graduation. Too many students end up working in a field that has nothing to do with what they went to school for. I work with countless people today who have degrees in other fields and just cant find work. The government has a very important role in responding to the many concerns of students. We are the future.

[carter....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

The cost of education is too high.  Something has to be done.  Both parties should be in agreement on this one.  I do not understand why those coming out of the prison system receive a free ride when many first year college students are not pell eligible.  Families are fighting to keep their bills paid and cannot even get help for their sons/daughters freshmen tuition. 

[lucy mccarroll]

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

How should the government (President, Congress, and the Supreme Court) respond (or not respond)  to the various problems identified by students?  How important are the two major political parties (the Republicans and the Democrats) in responding (or not responding) to the various problems identified? 

The government should respond by lowering the  

[Amanda Kanno]

The main issue that most student have when thinking about college is their financial stability and if they are able to afford to go to college. I believe that the students of today are the backbone of our societies future. So if the students are more confident and financially able to attend college to have a better education then the future of our country will be much better as well. The government should be much more helpful to students financially so they will get a great education which will eventually lead to a strong, safer, and smarter America. 

[lucy mccarroll]

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

How should the government (President, Congress, and the Supreme Court) respond (or not respond)  to the various problems identified by students?  How important are the two major political parties (the Republicans and the Democrats) in responding (or not responding) to the various problems identified? 

 

The government should respond by lowering the cost for school loans and make easier the way to be approved for these loans. The Democrats and Republicans  who are the major parties of the House have to be the first who would help to solve the student's problems. I am sure that they can respond by doing  something now.

[Shatara Lee]

The major concern for me as a student is the cost of education and general living. I'm a full-time mom as well as student. I think the government should provide more opportunities for grant and scholarships to pay for tutition and books. I also think that the Republican party given the chance will make it harder to obtain a degree than a Democrat party would.

[Thomas, Latasha]

The government needs to respond to issues identified by students because we are partially responsible for them holding office.  We are the voters that stand up and vouch for individuals to represent what we the people want. We endorse representatives that insists our needs and demands will be heard  and considered. As a student I think the biggest concern is finding a job to be able to care for my family without having to be in debt doing so. I feel if the government should respond by lowering interest rates and putting more money into creating jobs! Republicans and Democrats alike need to feel compelled to appeal to student interest, after all we are the ones preparing for their jobs.

On Wed, Jul 17, 2013 at 10:37 PM, <thomas....@student.oaklandcc.edu> wrote:

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

How should the government (President, Congress, and the Supreme Court) respond (or not respond)  to the various problems identified by students?  How important are the two major political parties (the Republicans and the Democrats) in responding (or not responding) to the various problems identified? 

 

 

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[Manda Shiner]

Frankly, I believe that the current generation has been grievously lied to - albeit mostly unintentionally - by our parents, the educational system, and also our government. We were told that the way to secure our futures was to obtain college degrees. That it was worth taking on debt to take classes, because a degree would get us a good job. And many of us are drowning in debt (or will be) with college degrees that, in our current job shortage, may or may not qualify us to work as a receptionist for just above minimum wage. College is the new high school. 

The government has stepped in before to bail out the banks instead of the homeowners - which would have done a great deal more to stimulate the economy. I believe it needs to step in now to alleviate the student debt crisis, and certainly to make sure that federal loan interest rates do not increase, at the very least. The government also needs to step in to make sure employers are required to pay a real living wage. Job creation needs to become a real, acted-upon priority; not in the "trickle-down" way of tax breaks for corporations and the uber-rich, but in the way that's demonstrably worked for us before - pulling in more tax money from the very wealthy, and using it to create jobs directly. Our infrastructure in most areas of the nation is crumbling, or at the very least outdated - how many workers (direct construction and support) could we employ if we were to start fixing our roads and bridges, or even follow Europe's lead in ensuring high speed internet access for all? Unfortunately, the Republican party has been so obstructionist in recent years that it's extraordinarily unlikely to go this way. Even the Democrats are at this point unlikely to even suggest such a change in economic practices, since they are perfectly aware that nothing like it will get by their counterparts in the opposition.

[thomas....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

[carney....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

 I think that maybe one of the biggest problems that students have is money for college and paying back school loans. A lot of people who go to college have college funds or parents that pay their way, I’m not saying that is a bad thing it’s just the world that we live in. However there is also the other half the people who work full time and go to school on the side, in hopes to one day get their degree and finally get that dream job. In this process many may run up huge student loans, I think that the government should somehow come up with a way to make it easier for student to get money for college and to achieve their degree rather than running up huge bills that will also in turn affect that persons credit. I think one good way to do this would be to offer more student grants or scholarships for certain programs where more people may be required to do a job.

[carney....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think that we will have a future; we are all hopefully working for the common good of our country. As for your comment will the earth be a safe place to live I would like to say defiantly, the future that I am planning for myself and for the one of my family will be a great one and hopefully it will be a better one than the one I grew up in. There are defiantly a lot of problems that need to be addressed but hopefully we can continue strive for improvement.

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 2:13:44 PM UTC-4, krapf...@student.oaklandcc.edu wrote:

I think that the major concerns of students are what will we have in the future. Will all that we are working for be there. Will the Earth be safe to live? Will the owrld be better for our children? Also, what can we do now to make the future have a chance.

[Anthony Cobb]

Another issue is paying back student loans. I had to pay back a student loan before I started school again. It was very difficult with all the other expenses that come along with everyday living.   

[moon....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think a big issue for me personally is social security. I am young, but I pay into social security every time I receive a check. With the current deficit and debacle around this issue. My concern is, Lord willing I live long enough to find out, will I be able to collect social security? 

[moon....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

[moon....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think a big issue for me personally is social security. I am young, but I pay into social security every time I receive a check. With the current deficit and debacle around this issue. My concern is, Lord willing I live long enough to find out, will I be able to collect social security? 

[benton....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I know I'm late but I feel that the government should take the concerns of the students more seriously because the fact is the more we succeed in our careers the more we pay in taxes and into the economy. The fact that people are attempting to be productive and not just sit around shows their interest in the economy. I believe it'll def lower public assistance if the government did something about the overall cost of tuition in schools or at least offered more grants to students.

[Thomas, Latasha]

Offering more grants and scholarships is a great way for the government to stimulate economy. It would certainly encourage more students to further their education. It would enhance more spending in areas where economy is strained. Students are suffering with all kind of financial hardships because their is not enough funds being allocated to help lift educational burdens.  I feel like I have to make a decision between getting my books and supplies or just getting to class. I can hardly concentrate on studies when I have to figure out how to support my family because i'm not educated enough for good paying job. Working to further my education to fix that but I can hardly afford to wait for degree. I just believe we need a government who cares about what we the students care about and be concerned enough to address it.

[l lawson]

I beleive that one of the biggest concerns that students have right now is the cost of education. The cost of tuition can be made affordable for a student who has grants, scholarships or maybe come from a wealthy family. Unfortunately there is a percentage of people who does not have or meet the criteria to afford college. This group of people depends on government funding to pay for their education. The government should ask questions such as: who, what, how and why? Before deciding on a increase to the student loan.

[cobb.a...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

 

I agree with Latasha, allocating funds in the area of the economy that are hurting right now would be a great starting point. we are suffering as students. I feel like I cant wait for a degree, trying to balance getting to work, school, my daughter, books, supplies etc is hard. not to mention tuition, loans, and other bills. than when I do get a degree will there be any jobs in my field for me to pursue? who knows?

[l lawson]

This is a great suggestion, unfortunately nothing in America is free.

[Jasper Crooks]

It From my view point most college students have the same worries...... Financial stability

[dejleit...@gmail.com]

Affording college is the greatest problem we are all facing, also what jobs will be waiting for us when we graduate. The cost of living is just out of control. Our government needs to take a very hard look at the average american. I think it's a shame we pay these people to represent us and pass laws to make americans lives easier but all they do is make it harder. They should all be FIRED!!

[JayJay Olaleye]

I think financial cost is the major concern of students today. Students worry about how they'll be able to afford to attend college, and also will financial aid be sufficient enough to attend universities without scholarships and grants, how they'll be able to pay for textbooks etc. Unless a students receives an academic or athletic scholarship the concern will almost always be there, and taking out loans can be a problem for some students in the future. But I think if students excel in their academics/athletics causing scholarships to be given, they will be able to eliminate the problem of financial cost. Also a concern for students exiting college is whether they'll be able to get a job. Which is where the government comes into play, I think the government should provide aid to students who struggle to attain a job coming out of college. 

[Gabriel Ojo]

In my opinion, the main concerns of students are:

• paying for tuition, especially as tuition costs increase consistently year after year
• finding jobs after graduating from college
• job security in the future
• rising costs in the economy (housing, consumer products, etc.)

I think that the best way for the government to respond to these problems is to determine what is causing tuition costs and costs for consumer items to increase so drastically year after year. Making a policy to alleviate the problem is only possible if one knows what is causing the problem.

[miller...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

My concerns would be the cost of tuition because i pay for my own college classes and i am going run out of money very soon and going to have to take out a loan and already be in debt before i graduate college. Also, my concerns with this class is getting a good grade because i did not do so well on the first exam that is why i am doing the extra credit presentation Nov. 15th with my group.

[clous...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

How should the government (President, Congress, and the Supreme Court) respond (or not respond)  to the various problems identified by students?  How important are the two major political parties (the Republicans and the Democrats) in responding (or not responding) to the various problems identified?

 

As a student, my main concern is the tuition of college. I am from a middle class family and applied for financial aid but cannot receive any help. I don't have enough money to pay for college alone so I feel like I'll have a ton of debt coming out of college. I wish one of the political parties would address this issue but I feel niether one has. More government assistance is needed for college tuition. The government pays for everybody elses needs.

[draughn....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

i think most students are worried about being financial stable enough to go to college and obtain a degree. The government can help by offering financial aid to ALL students regardless of income.

[klusman....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I believe that schools should not be charging so much money for school books. That is the first reason why many college students are on Financial AID. The government decided in the 1990's or 2000's to raise the cost of going to school when the economy is bad and many people are hurting for money. I find this to be very inconsiderate. If anything, I think that schools should be cheaper when the economy is bad instead of raising the prices for school. I also believe that we need to do a better job utilizing our resources and taking better care of our environment to do a better job at supporting ourselves, others, and even our economy today.  

[mouat....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

The number one thing every student has on their mind is how will they afford their college education and what jobs will be available after they graduate college. The government should also have more grants available to help the students with our books and tuition along with creating more jobs waiting for us after we graduate.

[Rachel Bills]

I agree with you completely. I have come to find that young adults from the middle class have it the hardest when trying to acquire financial aid. I also come from a middle class family, and was denied fincial aid, and I do not think that is fair. I believe how financial aid is awarded should be reworked in a way that it benefits all students. 

[Denise Vernon]

Coming closer to the end of my OCC journey I would have to say my biggest concern is passing this American Government class..

[Kristen Davis]

i would agree school is so expensive an it is fear that we may change our majors a hundred times or have to retake classes and pay back all the loans we have taken out also being sure when we graduate from college we actually have a job and didnt just waste all that time and invested money into a career that isnt booming in jobs

[doyon....@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I believe most kids are worried they wouldn't be able to afford college or pay off all their debts after they graduate with a degree and thats a scary thought.  That you went to college for all these years and you can't find a job with the degree you got and start a life and pay off your bills.  Thats one of my biggest fears.

[montgome...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

The Number one concern of students today is their financial needs Governor Snyder is a republican and he feels that they should not have to pay for schooling. I feel they should not speak in a selfish manner. To me the Republicans are all about self, they don't care about the people they only care about their money. it is important for the two major political parties to respond to the various problems because if they do not respond to the students or the public we the people will not know whats going on.

[Megan Miller]

It is not a class issue or a party issue, this is a community issue. The fact that politicians do not address students at all is the problem. On a state level students need to be rallied in order to gain confidence that their opinions will be heard. I certainly don't think anyone cares about my opinions as a student, when in fact I should be the first one asked, as the future leaders of my country. The sad part about being a student is that the most is expected out of us, yet we are given the least amount of attention by our peer and community members.  

[basler.ch...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

In my personal opinion the biggest concern of students today is not just paying for an education but getting what you paid for from that education. All too frequently you hear about college graduates with bachelors or even masters degree's going out into the work force and being unable to find a job because their program did not teach them the skills necessary to succeed in their profession.

[hewan Elias]

As a student today I am concerned  about my mounting school loans and if the government will help me out. they are  keep raising interest on the loans. I am also concerned with the housing market and when I am ready to buy a home will there be any lenders out there that will give me a loan with the student debt that I have. I also think about when I graduate what will my job prospects look like? will all the jobs that I will be qualified for go overseas for less money. Food is also a rising problem. Will there be enough of it and how can we as a young generation fix all of the additives that are going into the processing of foods. 

[memmer...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think the main thing on students minds is if after all the money they have spent or after all the loans they have accumulated from pursuing this notion society has made that in order to be successful you  need higher education that they wont be able to find a job. The percentage of students who cannot find jobs after college is increasing every year and then it becomes an issue to further your education even more to a masters because now a bachelors degree is looked at primarily in comparison to a high school diploma, so the more money you shell out the higher degree you get but how great are the chances of actually being able to pay off your debt with a job you obtained from that exact degree.

[Dorothy Clark]

After completing school would you be able to find a job in the field that you are going in, and would the pay be reasonable for you to live on. 

[Dorothy Clark]

This gov. class that I'm taking this summer I really like it. I didn't really get into political and gov. stuff but going on those web sites I want to know more. This class is very helpful for me.

[Shelby Truax]

The government needs to reevaluate their allocation of funds. First off to loosen up funds the defense budget and the cost of operation ie salaries of government officials needs looked at. Unfortunately, congress will never vote to give themselves less money. But in my dream world those little bits of salaries from overly paid government officials would be redirected towards education and healthcare. I also think that there should be legislation determining the amount of profit a school can make from tuition in order to keep universities from raising rates to an extreme. With all the checks and balances it is difficult to change the law which in some cases is good but in this instance I think it is hurting the middle and lower classes.

[brook...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

I think one of the most pressing concerns of students today is student debt. If tuition rates continue to skyrockets, college education will be out of reach for many people. Many students are deep in debt after graduating and cannot find decent paying jobs. There is a growing movement to eliminate or greatly reduce this debt on college campuses across the country. One movement called Strike Debt was born out of the Occupy Wall Street uprising. In Brazil, students have been protesting for a long time in great numbers demanding to make college education free. Something needs to change because it seems like the current system is unsustainable. 

[emily....@yahoo.com]

Students always are pondering in the back of their mind is the question of "how am I going to make it through college?" Not only is college difficult getting good grades, it is also very difficult to find out how we are supposed to afford college.

[zachkinsler]

On Wednesday, July 17, 2013 10:38:01 AM UTC-4, Jeff Farrah wrote:

How should the government (President, Congress, and the Supreme Court) respond (or not respond)  to the various problems identified by students?  How important are the two major political parties (the Republicans and the Democrats) in responding (or not responding) to the various problems identified? 

Kids are worried about the climbing school costs that leads to greater debt, not knowing what field they want to go into in the first place, or feeling indecisive after they think they've already made that decision. I think the issue's complexity is way over my head, but somehow schools need to drop tuition costs. I know in class we talked about how student debt has passed 1 trillion recently. 

[reynold...@student.oaklandcc.edu]

affording college, and seeking for approval and success.