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2008 Higher Education Summit: “A Test of Leadership” July 20, 2008

Posted by thinkphd in : Miscellaneous , trackback

The US Secretary of Education Margaret Spelling delivered some interesting remarks at the 2008 Higher Education Summit, “A Test of Leadership,” in Chicago this week.  Two comments in particular captured my attention:

“Is it acceptable that the financial aid system is so confusing, complex and inefficient, that many young people, and their parents, simply throw up their hands and walk away?” and “Simply put, higher ed must become more agile, transparent, and student-centered. ”  (http://www.ed.gov/news/pressreleases/2008/07/07182008.html).

I couldn’t agree more! So many of my students are discouraged by the volume of red tape associated with financial aid. In their end of course surveys, it is far to common to find negative comments about the FA dept or the process in general. I believe that education changes lives by creating a mindset of possibility. Higher ed expands our minds to think beyond today.

However, higher education is not for everyone. I do not want our government to hand out degrees or free money. I do believe that those who are ready for college and motivated to learn should have an affordable opportunity. Rather than grant money, I would like to see more scholarships based on apptitude, rather than financial status. The middle class family often struggles with the cost of education for their children - they make too much to be eligible for a grant. Achievement should be the basis for financial assistance.

Many people believe that education is a “right.” I do not. You should have to show your ability and desire to attend - rather than base everything on how much you or your parents make. I wholeheartedly agree with Secretary Spelling in her assessment that higher ed must become more “agile, transparent, and student-centered.”

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Comments»

1. Tom - August 17, 2008

I’m thinking about pursuing a doctorate at nortcentral. Your thoughts????

2. thinkphd - August 18, 2008

Hi Tom,
Working on a doctorate is a lot of hard work and very time consuming. You will need to consider your lifestyle and life situation - will you have time to research and write papers? Secondly, returning to school is expensive. Are you economically able to start on your doctorate? I am taking my 7th course at NCU - and they are not getting any easier! However, if you are very motivated, NCU is a great choice because of their flexible schedules. I recommend it!