Two decades ago, when I started my journey as a political science professor, my primary challenge was to calm a room buzzing with talkative undergraduates. Now, the atmosphere has shifted. I frequently enter classrooms filled with silence as students focus on their phones, seemingly oblivious to peers sitting next to them. This changing behavior reflects...
Paying for college involves numerous concepts and terms like Pell Grants, FAFSA, and 529s. Misunderstandings are common, making the financial aspect daunting. A clear understanding of costs helps in navigating this complex process. A six-week newsletter course is available to guide you through college costs and financial aid. The course offers expert advice on saving,...
In late September, children are back in school, routine is established, and reading lists are determined. What do these lists include? Often, traditional textbooks dominate, especially in public schools, where they are usually prepared by committees. These textbooks range from uninspiring to sometimes promoting particular agendas. Alternatively, some curricula are delivered through monotonous computer screens....
Introduction The Rev. Brian Konkol was officially sworn in as the 20th president of Valparaiso University, emphasizing the importance of character and faith in his inaugural address. Held at the Chapel of the Resurrection, the ceremony attracted students, staff, alumni, and former colleagues from across the nation. Building Character Over Resumes Konkol stressed that the...
Borrowers who were part of the discontinued Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan face important deadlines to select a new repayment option. They must act promptly to avoid automatic enrollment in another plan. Deadline Details Some SAVE borrowers need to decide by September 29. This deadline marks 90 days after loan servicers began...
A coalition of 89 organizations representing student borrowers is pressing Congress to initiate emergency hearings on widespread student loan servicing issues. Amid ongoing revisions to the federal student loan system by the Trump administration, these groups have issued a letter to Congress highlighting significant issues facing millions of borrowers. Concerns Raised by the Coalition The...
In the upcoming election cycle, the decision of certain candidates to run for multiple offices has sparked significant backlash. Notably, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and U.S. Representative Mike Quigley are both seeking reelection for their current positions while campaigning to become the next mayor of Chicago. Controversy has also arisen within the educational sector....
The Trump administration has taken legal action against D.C. and three states that recently allowed in-state tuition for undocumented college students. This marks a significant point of action in the administration’s policies regarding immigration and education benefits. These lawsuits aim to nullify the policies that provide financial assistance to undocumented students pursuing higher education. The...
In rural Newburg, a small school is experiencing significant progress due to a program expanding throughout Missouri. Despite having the option to retire after 30 years in education, I, Melissa Wright, have chosen to continue my work as an elementary school principal in Phelps County. The program’s impact on students and the community has been...
Mar Hernandez recalls a pivotal moment during the last stretch of college when she received a call informing her she had won the 2021 College Podcast Challenge. The competition, held during the pandemic while she was studying from home in Colorado Springs, changed her life. It led to her first radio job at KNKX, an...