A Personal Outlook on the Cost of Higher Education
From a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a healthcare career. My mother instilled in me the importance of serving others in need of medical care, shaping my desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. However, achieving this dream has been fraught with challenges, particularly those related to the cost of higher education. This financial barrier is more than just a personal concern—it is a pressing issue that affects countless students across the nation, limiting their potential and, by extension, the progress of society as a whole.
My own experience at Morehouse College has underscored the critical importance of addressing the cost of higher education. Earlier this year, I faced an unexpected setback when my academic scholarship was taken away without notice. This sudden loss created an overwhelming sense of uncertainty and stress as I struggled to navigate the new financial burden. The scholarship had been a vital resource that allowed me to focus on my studies and pursue my goal of becoming an ER nurse practitioner. Losing it, without any warning or explanation, felt like a rug being pulled out from under me, threatening my ability to continue my education.
The experience of losing my scholarship left me feeling powerless and frustrated, but it also pushed me to confront the systemic issues within higher education. The cost of college is already prohibitive for many students, particularly those from marginalized communities or low-income backgrounds. The lack of transparency and communication regarding financial aid only exacerbates this problem, leaving students in precarious situations where their educational futures can change overnight. This experience was a turning point for me, as it made me realize just how fragile the promise of education can be for students like me. I felt a deep sense of injustice, but also a renewed determination to advocate for myself and others facing similar challenges.
I knew I could not let this obstacle derail my aspirations, so I began exploring alternative funding options, applying for additional scholarships, and reaching out to the financial aid office repeatedly, even when my efforts were met with silence. This moment was significant for me because it reinforced my commitment to overcoming adversity, much like the countless patients I hope to serve in the future. Yet, it also highlighted a deeper issue: the lack of transparency and fairness in financial aid distribution.
The cost of higher education is not just a financial barrier; it is a social justice issue. The current system often leaves students from marginalized backgrounds—like myself—struggling to afford the education they need to build better futures. As a student of color who has faced both personal and financial hardships, I have come to understand how the intersection of these identities can create unique barriers to success. I have also seen how these barriers are compounded by systemic biases within our society, particularly in healthcare. My mother, for example, struggled with type 2 diabetes and faced skepticism from healthcare providers who dismissed her symptoms. This experience of seeing my mother’s health concerns ignored due to bias has fueled my passion for providing compassionate, equitable care to all patients, regardless of their background.
To create a more equitable society, we must make higher education accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or background. Addressing the cost of education is essential for promoting diversity within professional fields such as healthcare, where representation can significantly improve patient outcomes. If we fail to lower the financial barriers to education, we risk perpetuating cycles of inequality, where only those with means can afford to pursue careers that have the potential to enact change. In my case, I have faced both financial hardships and health challenges, including being born with sickle cell anemia and being prediabetic. These experiences have given me a unique perspective on the importance of diversity in education and healthcare. To create a more equitable society, we must make higher education accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or background.
To effect this change, we need a radical shift in how we approach funding in higher education. Colleges and universities must prioritize transparency in their financial aid policies, ensuring students are aware of any changes to their financing well in advance. Additionally, there should be a more robust system of support for students from underrepresented communities, providing them with the resources they need to succeed. We should advocate for government policies that reduce the overall cost of college, such as expanding grant programs and reducing interest rates on student loans. These changes would help humanity progress by making education more accessible and equitable. I believe that with these reforms, we can build a system that fosters true meritocracy, where students are judged by their potential and determination, not by their financial background.
Sharing my story is one way I hope to inspire others to see the importance of these changes. As someone who has faced both financial and healthcare challenges, I understand firsthand the barriers that can stand in the way of pursuing one’s dreams. I want others to learn from my experiences, recognizing that while the path may be difficult, perseverance and advocacy can make a difference. My voice and story are important because they highlight the intersectionality of different forms of inequality—economic, racial, and health-related—and the urgent need for systemic change. In particular, my journey underscores the critical need for empathy and understanding within our educational and healthcare systems.
By advocating for change and sharing my perspective, I hope to spark conversations that lead to tangible action. For instance, I want to encourage educational institutions to implement policies that support students in need, such as emergency funds or targeted scholarships. I also hope to influence healthcare providers to consider the social determinants of health more deeply, understanding how economic instability affects a patient’s ability to access and afford care. My story is not just about overcoming personal challenges; it is about using those challenges to drive change that benefits others.
The cost of higher education is not just a personal challenge; it is a societal one. It is a barrier that holds back talented individuals who could contribute significantly to our communities if only given the chance. By addressing this issue, we take a step toward a more inclusive and equitable society—one in which all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
In conclusion, my journey has taught me the profound impact that the cost of higher education can have on a student’s life and future. It has also made me acutely aware of the need for change. I believe we can build a better future by advocating for more transparent financial aid processes, greater support for marginalized students, and a more affordable education system. Together, we can ensure that every student, regardless of their background or financial situation, has the chance to succeed and contribute to the world in meaningful ways.