When will they learn?

I was rather dismayed to read about the debate currently occurring as to whether universities should be allowed to charge more money to students who wish to earn a degree.

I was dismayed by this news subject for a number of reasons;

1: I went to University, I graduated with a 2:2 BA in Journalism and Video Production. I am proud of my degree.

As a result of my degree I currently owe the student loan company several thousands of pounds in unpaid debt which is currently not being paid off (I don't earn enough money.) and which is continuing to gain interest on a monthly basis.

There is one way that I could pay of my student debt in realistic terms, however this realism does include my becoming a contestant on Deal or No Deal and being fortunate enough to pick the £250,000 box.

In the current climate, I will be shocked if I'm ever able to pay off my student debt.

On top of this, I believe that if the universities want more money, they should be giving value for money in the first place at least. (this brings me onto my second point)

2: I spent my university life in an average of 4 hours a week worth of lectures. If I had been taught during my degree, I am certain I would have gained a far higher grade.

I can be certain in this belief as a number of friends of mine who went to university and received real teaching graduated with much higher grades than I did (We're talking shiny proud 1st's here).

(and finally the 3rd point)

3: Since then I have heard from my university once, I received a telephone call a few months ago asking what I was doing now as the university were trying to record the paths of students since graduation, I explained my situation fully and was told that if I emailed David Shacklady who is the Head of Careers & Employment at Buckinghamshire New University I would be given advice on my C.V.

I did this immediately, anything to help find me an opportunity...

David replied with a note that read;

Hi Matt

I will check your CV and get back to you shortly.

Best Wishes

David

That was received by me on January 15th 2009.

I think we have different ideas on what the definition of shortly is.

(Conclusion)

As it stands I'm in a situation now where my outlook towards the future is incredibly positive and I'm really looking forward to finding out what happens next in my life.

The point I was originally making however is why should I or any of the future generations be expected to amass this much debt when the university do such a shoddy job?

If this suggested fee rise goes ahead I will urge any children I may have in the future to not go to university unless they wish to go into a profession that demands a university education, as it seems to me to be nothing more than a big waste of time and money.