This November voters will be heading to the polls to elect the new U.S. president and other state and local officials. Students and parents, if you have concerns about your or your child's future college/university career and you are interested in having a say in the future of higher education in your state, I encourage you to get out and vote.

Tuition costs in continue to outpace the rate of national inflation--something that many find challenging in these trying economic times. The federal government continues to bandy about the issue of student loans. State governments across the U.S. are finding it harder to come up with dollars to fund financial aid programs--especially grant programs--that adequately assist students in meeting these costs. As a result, many students and families are finding it increasingly difficult to finance higher education.
Those students that are able to access higher education are also wondering whether the education they receive from their college/university is worth the high price they paid.

Yes, states have a variety of economic and social priorities to fund that are probably more important than higher education (i.e. health, safety, and preK-12 education). While I concede that these are high priority areas, I believe states must make moves to adequately provide for the future educational needs of their constituents. Education beyond high school, in all of its various forms, increases an individual's employability and future earning potential--all of which help states insure ongoing economic and social success.

Parents and students, this fall I encourage you to explore your higher education issues and concerns with your local candidates. If you want change, help create that change. Use your vote to help guide the future of higher education in your state.

If you would like information on your (names, contact information, general stand, etc.), contact your local voter registration office or the office of the Secretary of State for Your State.

Until next time, let's get out and rock the vote!

Lynn Byrne

Preparing for college admissions? Trying to find direction? Need a little help with the planning? Check out my college planning series:

• College Planning Made Easy--the planning and preparation workbook for the take charge, college-bound student,
  
• Paying for College Made Easy--a college financing guide designed to assist students and families in preparing and planning for higher education expenses; and
  
• The Great Scholarship Search--my guide for students and parents researching and applying for scholarship funding.