Letter to the Editor

By:

Posted: 5/9/07

Tuition interest - OUS should be able to keep interest earned

Dear Editor,

I am writing to shed light on a serious issue concerning students in the Oregon University System. After years of disinvestment in higher education, it is time for the legislature to do something about it. It is time to allow the Oregon University System (OUS) to keep the money earned on tuition interest. Just like money in the bank, tuition earns interest in the State Treasury. However, unlike most investments, students don't benefit from the interest that our tuition dollars accrue. Students invest thousands of dollars in our college education - it is only logical that the earnings on our investment go towards ensuring we have a quality education. Personally, I will graduate with around twenty thousand dollars in debt; others will have more. It would be nice to lessen the burden as much as possible. This money could allow us to increase student services and course selections to help students get through college on time. It is so hard to get into some classes until later on in college. There shouldn't be so many seniors in Comm 111! I urge you to contact your legislator and ask them to take advantage of this great opportunity to reinvest in university students by passing House Bill 2198.

Sincerely,

-Ryan Mann
sophomore, political science