Over the course of the next few weeks, UNC students will see extra increases to their tuition bill based on recent approvals by President Bowles. Since students are faced with the additional charges for their education, many individuals have expressed their dislikes of the increases. These voices are important to help prevent increases students may be faced with in future years.

Although students are faced with this extra financial burden, the UNC system has been able to maintain a quality education at an affordable price. In comparison to peer institutions in other states, our universities have remained relatively inexpensive.

Need-based financial aid will be increased in order to alleviate the extra financial burden to students. Although need-based aid has increased, students are afraid that the recent increases open the door for similar or greater increases in subsequent years. Hence, it is vital for students to have their voices heard. Policy-makers are not aware of the direct burden the increases will have on the student experience in the classroom. It is important that students make them aware of the effects of such increases.

I will not encourage a student to drop their courses because they cannot afford the new increases. The knowledge garnered with higher education is an invaluable investment for the future; it should not be foregone due to costs, which are small in comparison. Scholarships and grants (both public and private) are vastly available. Cost reduction methods could be considered, such as online texts and classroom materials. The internet has proven to be a great resource for all respects of life. If that does not suffice, many students have considered a community college alternative. That should not be looked down upon, as North Carolina prides itself of having the best university system and the best community college system in the country. The key is to not give up on higher education.

Earlier this year the UNC Association of Student Governments spearheaded the successful Tuition Petition campaign. This campaign aimed to have money from tuition increases to remain on the campuses. There were a total of over 22,000 students from all 17 UNC institutions that signed the petition to show their concerns of money returning to the campuses. Students made a great impact on that front and it shall cease to end there with the help of all students in future efforts.

According to Article XI, Section 9 of the North Carolina Constitution, “The General Assembly shall provide that the benefits of The University of North Carolina and other public institutions of higher education, as far as practicable, be extended to the people of the State free of expense.” Let’s keep our representatives accountable. I ask all students to make sure their voices are heard.

Atul Bhula

Member Ex-Officio, UNC Board of Governors

President, UNC Association of Student Governments