Some students choose Pitt because it is a state school and offers a diverse education to students. In-state tuition is low.But despite this, Pennsylvania still ranks very low in terms of states Investment in higher education.
“Pennsylvania currently ranks 48th in affordability and 49th in state investment in higher education.” According to a press release from the governor's office. “Governor Shapiro recognizes that he must take action to improve access and opportunity for Pennsylvania students. Under Governor Shapiro’s plan, higher education will become an economic driver for Pennsylvania and It will prepare workers for the future.”
On February 6, Governor Josh Shapiro announced his 2024-2025 budget proposal aimed at strengthening higher education funding. According to a press release, the plan's three main goals are to create a system that is responsive to the state's needs, make higher education more accessible and affordable, and increase transparency throughout the system.
University spokesman Jared Stonecipher said Pitt “appreciates the continued support” from the governor's office.
“Pitt looks forward to working with the Shapiro Administration and the Legislature to enact a higher education plan that serves our students and puts Pennsylvania on the path to a more competitive workforce and a more robust economy.” said Stonesifer.
Ricky Brooks, a second-year political science major, said he feels Shapiro's plan will reduce stress for students.
“In today's economy, it can be very difficult to balance being a student and working. On top of that, you also have to worry about tuition costs,” Brooks said. Told. “Tuition fees can be very stressful depending on your financial background, and many people struggle with this.”
One of the plan's most notable goals is to significantly reduce tuition costs for families with below-median incomes at state colleges and universities. Increase PHEAA subsidy by $1,000.
Tom Ross, a sophomore majoring in history and political science, has been following the issue of in-state tuition since before coming to Pitt, and said he feels the plan is a “good idea.”
“I think it makes moral sense,” Ross said. “Everyone should have free access to higher education, and cost should not stand in the way of a chance at a brighter future. will benefit.”
During February board meetingPresident Joanne Gabel said the university is already taking steps to implement the governor's plan.
“As key details remain unclear, Pitt's Office of Government Relations and Advocacy is already working with state agencies to analyze the proposal and coordinate efforts,” Gabel said. “We are also working closely with political parties, the Legislature, and the Governor’s Office to shape the details of these initiatives. We will continue to aggressively pursue fair funding formulas that enable our important work.”
Shapiro said he hopes the plan will keep more young people in the state and help Pennsylvania's economy as a result.
“Every Pennsylvanian deserves the freedom to chart their own path and the opportunity to succeed,” Shapiro said in a press release. He said: “We need to rethink our higher education system for people who want to go to university and get qualifications.
Shapiro said he wants all students to be able to succeed and contribute to Pennsylvania's economy.
“You should have options for higher education that are accessible and affordable. That’s true for all students…That’s exactly what my plan will do, opening doors of opportunity and opening doors to the workforce. We will prepare our workforce and build a higher education system that is central to Pennsylvania's economic success.”
Brooks said he feels Shapiro's plan will bring diversity to higher education.
“I think if we can lower the cost of education even a little bit, it's going to be very beneficial, especially for people from disadvantaged backgrounds, because it's going to uplift our communities,” Brooks said. “Then they will understand that they can pursue higher education if they want.”
Ross believes the state should take steps to encourage young people to stay in Pennsylvania.
“While in-state tuition discounts help offset some of the costs, the fact is that higher education in Pennsylvania is priced too high,” Ross said. “We need to work to lower the price of education, or young people will look elsewhere to plan their futures. We can’t afford to drain people’s brains.”
