I'm a junior in high school and feeling lost and behind when thinking about college. The pressure of preparing for the future looms large, and one of my biggest concerns is how I'm going to afford college. Unfortunately, the topic of college affordability isn't discussed early enough in our education journey, leaving many students in the dark about the financial realities they will face. Schools should introduce basic financial literacy topics such as budgeting for college, understanding financial aid, comparing costs between schools, and evaluating the return on investment of different majors.

The cost of college education in the United States has been rising at an alarming rate over the past few decades. According to the College Board, the average tuition and fees at public four-year institutions have increased by over 213% from 1988 to 2018. As of 2021, students and their families are expected to pay nearly $10,560 per year for in-state tuition at a public college and approximately $37,172 annually for a private college, according to EducationData.org.

Many students, like myself, start thinking about the cost of college too late. Discussions about college affordability should begin as early as freshman year of high school. Early conversations can help students understand financial aid options, scholarships, and grants well in advance, allowing them to make informed decisions about their education.

Introducing this conversation early can alleviate stress and provide a roadmap for students and their families. Educators and school counselors need to integrate financial literacy and college affordability discussions into the high school curriculum starting freshman year. Providing practical resources and financial planning tools can empower students who might otherwise feel overwhelmed by the prospect of financing their higher education.

By implementing structured discussions about college costs and financial planning, schools can help students navigate these challenges and consider affordable college options. This can ultimately lead to more students, irrespective of their financial background, being able to pursue higher education without the burden of overwhelming debt.

I urge school administrators, counselors, and educators to prioritize this initiative, fostering an environment where students can feel informed and supported in their educational pursuits. Please sign this petition if you believe that discussing college affordability from freshman year can significantly benefit high school students across the nation.