On top of these financial implications, there are also the looming mental and psychological effects that debt has on students’ mental health. Many students experience profound stress, anxiety and feelings related to shame when thinking about their financial situations related to school. In a 2021 survey, one in 14 student borrowers said they experienced suicidal ideation because of taxing debt situations.

#OPINION: The fact that there are so many barriers to education and to succeeding in the workforce highlights an overarching problem within education and employment systems in this country.

In a passionless and loveless world, love and passion aren’t enough anymore. But there’s a beauty behind uncertainty and self-discovery that is worth learning from. 

For the 41 percent of students who never graduate college, negative stigmas are plenty and prospects for success are few. Or are they? It depends on how you define “success.”

WASHINGTON – Troy Simon grew up poor in New Orleans. He could not read until he was 14. But with a little help, he is now a student at Bard College in...