М10/2 19,20.03 Lesson 7. Is university worth it?

Prepared by Mohyla Yuliia

College Costs and the Value of Education
Your Assumption and Gap Years
You're right that many students choose to continue their education after high
school. However, there are various paths people take. Some take gap years to
travel, work, or gain volunteer experience before enrolling. This can be a valuable
way to explore interests and mature before entering university.
The Rising Cost of Education
The text raises a crucial point: the rising cost of university fees. This financial
burden is a major concern for students and families. It's essential to consider the
reasons behind this:
Increased faculty costs: Salaries, benefits, and research funding for professors can
contribute to rising fees.
Facility upkeep and updates: Maintaining buildings, libraries, and technology
infrastructure requires significant resources.
Investment in new technology and research: Universities need to stay current with
advancements to offer the best education and research opportunities.
The Value of a College Education
While the cost is a factor, a college degree can be an investment in your future. It
can lead to:
Better job opportunities: Many employers require a college degree for professional
positions.
Higher earning potential: College graduates typically earn more over their lifetimes
compared to those with only a high school diploma.
Personal growth and development: College exposes you to diverse ideas, critical
thinking skills, and a chance to explore passions beyond academics.
The Author's Argument and My Perspective
The author likely suggests that excessively high fees could deter students from
attending, hurting universities in the long run. I agree that affordability is crucial.
Ideally, universities should strive for a balance between offering a quality
education and keeping costs accessible.
Non-Defining Relative Clauses (Underlined) Some students take gap years after
graduating from high schools to earn money for their further education at the
university. (This clause describes when students take gap years.)
This can be a valuable way to explore interests and mature before entering
university. (This clause explains the purpose of taking a gap year.)
Remember, these are just some general examples. The specific non-defining
relative clauses in your textbook might differ depending on the exact wording.