College enrollment in the U.S. has dropped by 13% since 2010, while tuition has climbed more than 8% just since COVID. With the average annual cost of college now around $38,000, and the average salary in the U.S. only $39,982, the math doesn’t look good for families trying to send their kids to school.
For THS students, that reality can feel discouraging. Guidance counselor Mr. Dickens says he hears it often. “The rising price of education has made it kind of difficult for students to want to pursue,” he explained. “But going to college or a trade school isn’t for everybody; there are good career paths for any education level if one goes about it the right way.”
Debt is one of the biggest concerns. “People don’t want debt, especially at a young age,” Dickens said, noting that Torrington is not “a super wealthy community.” He also believes colleges may be hiking costs to make up for money lost during COVID, though inflation is the main driver.
Still, there are ways to save. Connecticut’s free community college program, for example, covers the first two years of tuition and allows students to transfer to a university. “This has been increasing in popularity and saves a huge amount of money,” Dickens said. He added that THS students can apply for local scholarships in their senior year and look to national scholarships through Xello, though those are more competitive.
THS also offers courses that translate into college credits. Dickens pointed out that “UConn dual enrollment classes and AP classes can provide college credit—we think dual enrollment is the best.” Passing a dual enrollment class almost always guarantees credit at Connecticut schools. AP courses require passing a test, and a score below 3 earns nothing. While dual enrollment costs $50 per credit if families don’t qualify for aid, it’s still far cheaper than waiting until college.
Other resources include FAFSA, which offers federal aid and can also connect students with college-based scholarships. “These are great resources for students as they will give them a bit of financial support,” Dickens said, though many families still need loans to cover the rest.
The rising costs may be intimidating, but not every student feels the pressure. Some THS students say they aren’t too worried yet, choosing instead to focus on finishing high school before making the big decisions ahead.
