College is typically regarded as the place young Americans flock to in search of fun, independence and, most importantly, a higher education. Every year, millions of Americans invest a great sum of money enrolling themselves in a university in hopes that a degree will optimize their career earnings and advancement.
For most, college is considered the bridge between being young and becoming an adult, as they are tasked with ensuring food, supplies and housing among other things are accounted for. Likewise, most college students apply to organizations and clubs, which usually demand a large social commitment. Whether students take out loans or have their education covered financially, a good economy would allow such students to cover all the needs listed previously while balancing their social and educational lives.
However, after years of being told college is the key to success, many students feel betrayed by the overwhelming cost of living the university experience offers.
Most universities provide some type of meal plan. However, meal plans can often be costly and impractical for the price. As a result, many college students opt out of university dining plans and are instead tasked with curating their own meals. Yet, as most would agree, the prices at grocery stores for basic necessities are expediently high. No matter what the blame might be, many have felt the effects of the rapid rise in food costs over the past few years.
Growing up, our generation was promised an America that provided a real chance to achieve our dreams if we worked hard enough and followed the right path. Yet, many have become discouraged at the viability of such a promise when they have to constantly cough up over $100 each week for basics such as milk, bread and meat. Unfortunately, for too many students, soaring food prices mean cutting down on food intake to help pay for necessities like monthly rent.
Along with soaring food prices, the increase in rent costs has also put further financial strain on students.
Like many other students at UT, I chose to live in an apartment complex in West Campus for the close proximity to campus as well as the cheaper rates when compared to other apartments near UT. However, after reading the statement to re-sign the lease at my current apartment and discovering renewal would cost plenty more than the current rate, I chose to look elsewhere. Many of my friends share a similar story and believe that rent around campus is out of control.
Although Austin itself has a higher cost of living than many other cities, the reality of paying exorbitant prices for rent has continued to plague much of the country. While many universities continue to grow in size, the market of affordable off-campus housing choices becomes more slim, leading to additional financial strain.
While debates over topics such as foreign policy or crime are going to be important factors for this election cycle, the issue of the economy will entice voters to the polls as they continue to feel the effects of high prices in their daily lives. Although some find the high prices to be bothersome, others experience a financial crisis. Nevertheless, young voters hope the election ushers in a change of trajectory for our country as the financial strain caused by basic goods continues to shrink their wallets.
Shankar is a government sophomore and member of UT Student Government’s Hook the Vote.
