VII. Sharing Ideas

A. Issues

Discuss these issues in small groups. Then choose one and write about it.

1. Many college students take out loans to pay tuition and living expenses. Students who attend expensive undergraduate and graduate schools may end up with $100,000-$200,000 of debt. Is it a good idea to borrow that much money for one's education? What are the pros and cons?

2. Should people who are paying for their own or their child's college education be given tax credits to offset some of the expense?

3. Is it better to go to college right after high school or to work or travel for a while first?

В. On a Personal Note

Write about one of these topics.

1. Still undecided about your college major? Consult the Occupational Outlook Handbook, a U.S. government publication. (Every American library has a copy.) Read about two careers that interest you. Then compare them. Which one seems the best choice in terms of job opportunities, wages, and benefits? Which one best matches your abilities and interests? Which one do you think you will pursue?

2. What are your academic and / or vocational goals? How do you expect to pursue them?

3. A survey of 260,000 college freshmen revealed that 30 % of them had long, tiring daily schedules and lived under great stress. What can be done to make the college years less stressful, especially for people who are trying to handle school, work, and family obligations? What techniques do you use for handling stress and reducing anxiety?

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