Dear Future President,

It’s hard to deny that college is a life-changing experience. During those four or more years, students are taught to become tolerant, knowledgeable individuals. These skills are valuable to everyone, because these people are the future of our country. The United States needs cultured and self-sufficient citizens to preserve the American identity and values.

But college tuition is skyrocketing, rising an average of 11 percent for private schools and 13 percent for public schools over the past 5 years, according to College Board. These escalating costs have made it challenging for families to pay for higher education. But since a college degree has almost become integral to obtaining a well-paying job, many students attend college regardless of cost; racking up thousands of dollars in student debt. According to the Wall Street Journal, the class of 2015 graduated with an average student debt of 30,000 dollars.

The United States government has acknowledged this problem to some extent, and 34 percent of students receive federal aid, according to College Board. However, this is not enough to promote college as a viable option for all lower and middle class families. Federal aid needs to stay constant with the rising prices of tuition. As the leader of our country for the next four years, I implore you to consider the importance and positive effect of higher education, and to allot more government funds to helping students pay for school.

Thank you,

Rachel