College students around the country are now anxiously awaiting the results of their applications for summer internships. Once a rare added bonus for students, internships have become a standard component of the college experience. And most college students would attest that the need to find substantive summer work each year is crucial.
A post-secondary degree has become increasingly essential for success in the current economy. However, given that financial aid has not kept pace (pdf) with the skyrocketing costs (pdf) of higher education, getting that college degree has become much more challenging. The government has a clear role to play in making higher education accessible for all qualified students. In addition to providing the funds, the government can also help students manage (and insure against) the risks presented by post-secondary school.
The ordeal of the American college girl, Amanda Knox, who was convicted this week of murdering her roommate while studying abroad, can serve as a harsh reminder to all young professionals (YPs) of the value of protecting their reputations. It seems to be a consensus among the legal pundits across the spectrum of the networks that it was Knox's reputation in the Italian media, rather than hard physical evidence, that resulted in her conviction.
Internships-the vast majority unpaid-have become a staple of the college experience. In 1992, only 9 percent of graduating students had participated in internships; by 2006 that figure increased to 83 percent. Internships are often good for both the student and the employer. Yet the current system is fraught with problems. In a previous entry, I discussed how unpaid internships put lower-income students at a substantial disadvantage compared to their better-off peers who can afford a summer of lost wages and the high living expenses of city life. Students who can't afford an unpaid internship don't get the valuable leg-up they need in searching for employment after graduation.
As with any bill jerked around for half a year in the democratic process and packed with side-deals, last week's momentous health care legislation has its perks and its flaws. There's still no public option, but recent college graduates will soon be able to ride their parents' insurance until they turn 27. Meanwhile, the pro-choice movement made no headway when it comes to a woman's right to have an abortion--if anything, they lost ground.
How do you, as young professionals, manage your household finances? Who is the saver and who is the spender? Do you fight over money? A 2008 survey by Parade Magazine found that money was the leading cause of marital fights. And rightly so. There was no class in high school or college titled, "How to manage money in a relationship." So when it comes to figuring out finances, it's literally trial by fire. And the fire can cause burns.
Editors at the New York Times recently asked, will
parents be bankrolling their 40-something child? A good question given that many baby boomer parents are doing just that for their 20-something kids by paying for college, summer overseas adventures, and even post-graduation apartments. Sure, times are tough, but what happened to independence? To sinking or swimming on your own? Or to just plain hard work and living within your own means (and not your parents')?
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