What is higher education?
Higher education is the pursuit of a degree or certificate. This process can range from several semesters to an extensive four-year program of study, depending on your academic aptitude and chosen subject. Ultimately, the degree you earn will depend upon your level of accomplishment as well as how far along you are academically.
A college degree can offer many opportunities in the workplace and beyond, but it also represents a journey that requires perseverance, skill, and in some cases emotional and spiritual growth.
In today’s uncertain economic climate, there may be doubts about the value of a degree and its associated cost. But the advantages are long-lasting: A college education can open doors to better jobs that pay more than what you currently earn; plus, it boosts your chances for health and life insurance that could drastically enhance quality of life.
Despite all the negative press about higher education, there are plenty of positive developments taking place within this industry. For instance, more jobs are available for people with STEM backgrounds and the job market is evolving to accommodate for AI technology’s rise.
Colleges throughout the country offer a range of study options, from university campuses to online programs and community colleges. Finding a school that meets your requirements and helps you reach your career objectives will be key in finding success in life.
Some of the top schools are placing emphasis on students’ wellbeing, while others advocate for social justice initiatives and the elimination of racial and socioeconomic inequities. These leaders are striving to make changes within their institutions so they can better serve their communities; and the results could be life-altering.
State legislators are working to guarantee New York’s colleges and universities have the resources they need for success. Albany Democrat Patricia Fahy has expressed concern over a proposed 30% tuition hike over five years for SUNY campuses, while Eric Dinowitz has spearheaded legislation that makes college access easier for New York City students with disabilities.
Presidents of private, nonprofit colleges and universities have been instrumental in advocating for more state support of CUNY and SUNY campuses. Most recently, the president of SUNY Old Westbury secured funding to further advance racial and social justice initiatives on his campus.
Another president is prioritizing student safety and mental health. He’s spearheading an initiative to expand support services for more than 8,000 undergraduate students at the school, while making sure their hall of residence is a secure, welcoming space.
He is also helping the university plant hundreds of trees and create student-centric areas on campus, while also launching a $1 billion fundraising campaign that will enable it to finance new infrastructure.
David Harris has served at Union College for nearly two decades and is an ardent supporter of liberal arts education and its need for greater affordability. Additionally, he has supported initiatives that provide financial aid to undocumented immigrants.