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America's Youth Want More Jobs Before Improved College Cost
By Catherine Groux
Posted September 10, 2012 10:00 AM
Youth want to see more jobs before lower college costs.During his acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention, President Barack Obama emphasized the importance of education to the future of the U.S. In particular, he called for more training for students in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), as these fields are rapidly growing. Additionally, he said the cost of college must decrease, making a bachelor's degree affordable for all students.
"...No child should have her dreams deferred because of a crowded classroom or a crumbling school," Obama said. "No family should have to set aside a college acceptance letter because they don't have the money. No company should have to look for workers overseas because they couldn't find any with the right skills here at home. That's not our future."
While most political candidates believe goals like keeping the cost of college low are important for America, a new poll shows that the country's youth feel other objectives should be met first. According to Generation Opportunity, 64% of people between the ages of 18 and 29 believe the creation of more quality, full-time jobs upon graduation is more important than lower student loan interest rates.
Paul T. Conway, president of Generation Opportunity, said these young adults are sending a clear message to President Obama that, first and foremost, they want more job opportunities.
"Young people know the root issue is the lack of real job opportunities, not further dependence on government, so that they are better able to provide for themselves, pay back loans and choose the healthcare plans that best suit their individual needs," Conway said in a statement.
