The economic recession has left many colleges and universities reeling. Forced to contend with a steep drop in funds and lowered returns on investments, administrators across the country have been searching for ways to cut costs without detracting from students’ experiences. Their challenge, to say the least, is daunting.
However, the University’s current set of proposals could have enormous ramifications for student life. As it stands, the Board of Trustees wants to add 30 students per class every year for at least the next four years. This means that, by 2013, the University would have 120 more students. This would exacerbate the housing crunch, and would likely crowd most of the freshman class into triples. Additionally, many more seniors would have to live in Low Rise.
Although the possibility of a housing crunch dismays us, we were happy to hear that the University refuses to cut Financial Aid. Many of its peers—some of whom are in better financial shape—have chosen to reduce their assistance by up to 25 percent. By choosing to retain its need-blind policies, the University administration has shown that it refuses to compromise its most valued principle. We commend it for this effort.
While the addition of 30 students may be inevitable, the University should still be sure to explore all other options—changes that could save the University money as well as those that could make it money.
One possibility is a cutback of Residential Life programs. Few students attend those sponsored by Resident and Community Advisors, most of which consist of lunches, free pizza and movie nights. Moreover, all too often RAs and CAs simply throw together these events just to fulfill their program requirements.
In order to increase revenue, the University could add a January term—which Williams and Skidmore, among others, have offered for years. While this change would necessitate extra funds for heating, dining, and classes over winter break, the added tuition could reimburse these costs and also make money for the University.
We appreciate the administration’s efforts to include our opinions in this important decision. President Michael Roth will appear at Sunday’s Wesleyan Student Assembly meeting, where those with alternative proposals can come and voice their opinions. We urge all interested students to come.
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