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Editorial: Pa. law puts Drexel students at a disadvantage
Editorial Board
Issue date: 6/6/08 Section: Ed-Op
Every year, five-year co-op students entering their senior year who have previously received grants from the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency find out they will not be receiving funding for their final year at Drexel. State laws require students to be in classes at all times to qualify for the fifth year of funding. A typical Drexel student will spend 18 months of the first four years on co-op, and does not qualify for the fifth year.
Apparently, the state does not consider Drexel a "bona fide" five-year program. The state is simply being unfair to Drexel students. A co-operative education affords students different opportunities than a traditional four-year school. In some cases, this school is simply a better fit for some students than the "normal" four-year route. There's no reason for students to be punished for making this choice.
A large amount of Drexel students are residents of Pennsylvania. They live and pay taxes here. When we go on co-op, most students work in Pennsylvania and pay income taxes to the state. Drexel and Drexel's students contribute as much to the local and state economy as anyone else.
Not to consider Drexel a "bona fide" five-year program is ridiculous. Drexel, with its rapid expansion, is bringing jobs to the area, as well as potential graduates to seek full-time jobs in the area. It is not like Drexel is a fly-by-night school or the University of Phoenix online. It's clearly a legitimate University. Drexel colleges are accredited across the board.
There's simply no logical reason for the state not to provide PHEAA grants to Drexel students. Call your state senator and demand Pennsylvania treats Drexel students fairly.
Apparently, the state does not consider Drexel a "bona fide" five-year program. The state is simply being unfair to Drexel students. A co-operative education affords students different opportunities than a traditional four-year school. In some cases, this school is simply a better fit for some students than the "normal" four-year route. There's no reason for students to be punished for making this choice.
A large amount of Drexel students are residents of Pennsylvania. They live and pay taxes here. When we go on co-op, most students work in Pennsylvania and pay income taxes to the state. Drexel and Drexel's students contribute as much to the local and state economy as anyone else.
Not to consider Drexel a "bona fide" five-year program is ridiculous. Drexel, with its rapid expansion, is bringing jobs to the area, as well as potential graduates to seek full-time jobs in the area. It is not like Drexel is a fly-by-night school or the University of Phoenix online. It's clearly a legitimate University. Drexel colleges are accredited across the board.
There's simply no logical reason for the state not to provide PHEAA grants to Drexel students. Call your state senator and demand Pennsylvania treats Drexel students fairly.
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SJ
posted 6/06/08 @ 12:05 PM EST
I agree completely with your editorial. Add Governor Rendell's name to the contact list.( He is well aware of Drexel's academic standing/ reputation/contributions to PA)
Advice: I find it offensive when I hear people say, "What do you want to do with your life? Flip burgers at Mc Donald's?" There is nothing wrong with working at a fast food restaurant and there is nothing wrong withh taking a class at The University of Phoenix. (Continued…)
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