For the second year in a row, the College of Arts and Sciences decided against raising tuition fees in the wake of continuous drops in enrollment paired with state funding declines.
Anna Sunderland, Kansas State graduate in communication sciences and disorders, said she believes the prospect of a tuition increase is a primary concern of students.
“I think one thing that’s really great about K-State is that we have, as a university, a really good spirit adaptability because this is not the first time we’ve overcome a bump in the road,” Sunderland said. “I think we will figure out a way to combat it, but it is a difficult situation at this point.”
A survey released by the College of Arts and Sciences on Jan. 19 invited students to respond regarding a proposed fee increase within the department. The emailed survey allowed students to rate their opinions on the importance on selected areas of critical need in the college, such as areas that needed improvements and personal feelings about other housekeeping items.
Amit Chakrabarti, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, said over 400 students had responded to the survey. Chakrabarti said he wanted to be sure he heard every student.
“I value and welcome your input in matters concerning the college,” Chakrabarti said. “I am glad you have chosen Kansas State, and particularly the College of Arts and Sciences, as your academic home. I wish you a fruitful semester.”
Laken Horton, junior in journalism and mass communications, said she would love it if tuition could stay as low as possible. Horton said she is an out-of-state student and said she feels as though any increase would really hurt her and other students in similar situations because tuition is already very high.
“The governor really has to do whatever it takes to make these changes and make it better for students because it affects pretty much not just me, but future students who wants to go to college as well,” Horton said. “The younger kids in Kansas are already struggling as well with the system because money is being pulled out of the schools left and right.”
