During an economics class, a 12th grade student made the statement, “What is the purpose of going to college with the way the economy is today?” This question sparked an interesting conversation that left many seniors in the room questioning their own thoughts about attending college. Two years ago a recession hit, making it harder to find jobs. This has left many seniors contemplating if they want to go to college and some are not sure if it is economically feasible.

Albany High School’s college advisor, Marty Anderson suggests that a two or four year degree will make all the difference in the long run. While talking to Mr. Anderson I was informed that for the past twenty years it has been just as hard to get into state schools as it is to get into private colleges. Tuition has also gone up. For example, SUNY’s tuition for a four year degree is $8,500 a year plus room and board, which comes to an estimate of 10,000. A public school like Hudson Valley Community College has tuition of about $3,500 plus $9,000 for student apartments. Last year 36% of the 2011 senior class attended a four year college and the other 55% attended into a two year college.

With the number of jobs decreasing and the number of people standing in the unemployment line increasing, Anderson suggests that parents and students “save money…attend a two year college first and then transfer to a four year college.” “The recession isn’t going to last forever. Get your degree.” said Anderson.

Not only does Anderson have guiding words for the senior body, but Lucia Gutierrez does as well. Gutierrez has been part of the Albany High School staff for the past twenty-two years as a Spanish teacher. By establishing connections with her students, she pushes them to strive for the best and to never give up. “As educators we wear many hats,” says Gutierrez. Gutierrez also encourages students to get their degree. She feels that it isbest to get it now as it will make a huge difference in the future. Gutierrez believes that by not going to college and staying home you won’t find a job. If a person thinks they can’t afford college, take advantage of the FASFA Program which is a form of financial aid.

Gutierrez mentioned that she has seen a change in the senior body attitude, between those that want to go college versus those that don’t. About five to eight years ago, the number of requests for a letter of recommendation was 2-5 and has decreased to about 1-3 over the years. “Don’t give up,” says Gutierrez. If a student doesn’t have the grades to get into a four year college, take advantage of the Leadership Partner Program, which is a college prep program that provides tutoring and other services that will help pull up a grade. Statistics say that with a degree a person can make a million dollars more in their lifetime.

Being a senior is difficult and scary and the challenges get harder and harder each day. With mid-terms, regents, IB and AP classes and for those that work while going to school, it’s even harder. For seniors, keep pushing forward and it will pay off in the long run.