Money is what makes the world spin. From the day we are born to the day we die we are characterized by our financial capability. One of the biggest tolls placed on meer 18-year-olds is the decision on whether to attend college and then where you should go. For me and my friends, we all decided on the University of Delaware, an out of state option for all. We find ourselves paying upwards of 50,000 dollars a year, and with each year that number rises. I find it absurd that we are willing away 200,000 dollars away at such a young age. Realistically, that will be worth two or three years of earnings. And the sad truth, according to one of my professors is that “we (the students) will most likely not be able to pay off our student debt in our lifetimes.” That’s absolutely terrifying to me. I will be funding the never-ending construction on campus for the rest of my life. 

  One of my friends is a first-generation college student, and there is a great amount of pressure on her to not only “foot the unreasonable college bill” but also to make her family proud. Both of my parents attended college, and they understand the process that it takes to be successful. For her, she is paving the road for herself; she is learning what it takes to survive on her own.  I can’t imagine coming into a whole new world without any insight, and I applaud her for always staying confident in her actions. 

My roommate, however, does not need to worry about her personal finances because her parents have the ability to pay for her schooling. This is a luxury that cannot always be given, but when it is the future is at your fingertips. She will not have to worry about where she lives, if she will have food to eat, or if she can go out every once in a while. She’s excited “to actually be able to live her life without the crippling stress of debt,” and I think that’s a magical feeling. 

I am in a similar situation, my parents have agreed to front the bill for my tuition under the assumption that I will do the same for my children. I like the thought that they are willing to help me stabilize my finances in order to help their future grandchildren. Finances scare me and I’m constantly worried about getting and maintaining a job in this economy, but it is a blessing to have always had the support of my family.