College is SO expensive.

We can say it over and over again, but the numbers aren’t getting any lower, so it seems. The cost of college has increased tremendously within the last 30 years.

The only solution our politicians have offered in recent years is the potential for student loan forgiveness, but that is not a solution to the ever-rising cost of college.

College students are already struggling to make ends meet, and now, their generation is being hit with one of the worst economic catastrophes in history.

Inflation is at astounding highs and the future seems quite dire considering the circumstances.

Is the “American Dream” still alive?

Is the United States even the “United States” anymore?

The average student borrower spends roughly 20 years paying off their loans.

Those who have loans will pay an average of $2,186 in interest each year.

At 4-year institutions, the cost of room and board ranges from $8,556 to $12,870.

60% of College Students Are At Risk for Hunger, Homelessness, and Basic Needs Insecurity

Aside from the ridiculous costs of college, statistics show that 60% of college students have experienced base needs insecurity, meaning they are at risk of homelessness, hunger, or reduced access to basic needs.

In the fall of 2020, 29% of students at 4-year colleges experienced food insecurity within the previous 30 days.

Among students at 2-year colleges, 39% reported experiencing food insecurity within the last 30 days.

48% of college students experience housing insecurity in one year.

Another 14% of college students report experiencing homelessness in a year.

Up to 44% of college students reported having symptoms of depression and anxiety.

More startling statistics regarding college students and mental health include:

– Suicide is the third leading cause of death for college students.

– Of those who have been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, 75% have their first episode by 24

– 30% of students reported feeling depressed in the past year.

– 50% of students reported feeling overwhelmingly anxious in the past year.

– Nearly 66% of students who developed substance abuse problems also were found to suffer from mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression.