Colleges should cite value of taking debt
The student loan crisis is the result of bad policy and the crass opportunism of America’s academia, a reader writes. Credit: AP/Seth Wenig
Colleges should cite value of taking debt
Every article eliciting sympathy for those suffering under the weight of student loans falls short for the same reasons [“Student debt-relief stay concerns LIers,” News, Oct. 23]. Where is a mention of academic institutions’ culpability in a degree’s cost compared to its economic value? Is the borrower questioned about the amount of debt to be incurred for the career being pursued?
A woman featured in the article chose to be a teacher. Even if she could get a position in her relatively high-paying home district of Port Washington, her starting salary would be about $50,000. This information is readily available. That should be factored into a decision to take out loans.
The article frames the issue in partisan terms. “Conservative attorneys, Republican lawmakers and business-oriented groups” are giving voice to the overwhelming majority of American taxpayers who have not taken student loans, not gone to college or paid back their loans. The people attempting to block this program are exercising more fiscal responsibility than President Joe Biden is.
The student loan “crisis” is not some evil apparition out of nowhere. It is the result of bad policy and the crass opportunism of America’s academia.
Is Biden’s loan forgiveness plan just another attempt to buy votes?
Chris Dillon, Centerport
I was a single mom. I worked two jobs seven days a week for three years to help my kids pay for college. They also worked. I refinanced my home. I did whatever I could to help my kids get through college, as my parents did for me.
Why should I be penalized and have to pay for this teacher’s debt? Obviously, I do not believe in student loan forgiveness. You chose your path — now walk it!
I’m not responsible for her or anyone else who chooses to rack up debt. She is making enough money to live in one of the nicest towns in north Nassau County. It’s time to be responsible.
Judith A. DiGabriele, Garden City Park
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