Campus opinions- Northeastern

BOSTON—Northeastern students have shown a particularly high interest in this year’s election -- from watching the debates to discussing the candidates to participating in one of the numerous campus events promoting voting. It is evident on campus that students realize a change is necessary, and this election is crucial to that change. If there is one issue that I believe is keeping Northeastern students, and perhaps all students, on the edge of their seats: the economy.

Since fall semester began, I know two people who have had to reconsider attending school because they simply couldn’t afford it any more. I know plenty of others who are making decisions about getting a job instead of getting involved in a student group. I know many who are choosing to enter the university’s co-op program instead of taking classes.

These students aren’t making decisions based on intellectual curiosity, but rather because their budgets and their parents’ budgets no longer allow the luxury of making those types of choices.

The Huntington News has published several stories on how the economy is affecting students. Some stories have indicated that despite the times, many are still buying the latest expensive technology and in-style Halloween costumes. But the point that can’t be overlooked is that many are running up hundreds or thousands of dollars in personal debt on their credit cards. And their parents are in no position to help pay it off.

Other students have more daunting financial concerns, with loans that could take years to pay off. And if students can’t find a job post-graduation, their ability to pay off their debt will be in serious jeopardy. This trend will worsen if the job market continues to decline.

Boston.com solicited the opinions of six local college newspaper editors on the mood of their campus as the election nears.