Goshen College students may be upset at the rising tuition costs--the coming year is projected to cost $34,790--but a little known fact is that tuition only covers 65 percent of one's actual educational cost.
Friday, March 5, known as “Tuition Free Day,” symbolically marks the approximate point in the year when students' tuition stops paying for their education and the financial support from other means begins,” said Rose Shetler, the assistant director of annual giving.
During the 2008-2009 year, alumni and those with connections to the college have given a total of $2.4 million. Moreover, 186 of the faculty and staff at Goshen donated over $85,000.
Continuing in its tradition, Goshen students are encouraged to take some time on Friday to thank donors. Postcards will be available for students to write thank-you notes in the dining hall and Union from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. In return, students will receive a choice between a cupcake or a “You are loved” button. Last year, students sent 137 postcards; this year, Shetler is hoping for 165.
“It’s really eye opening to realize that tuition doesn’t cover all of the costs,” Shetler said and encouraged all students to come celebrate the support of the donors.
Tuition Free Day Goals:
To raise awareness that tuition only covers 65 percent of the cost of education.
To celebrate that thousands of alumni and friends INVEST in students' education at Goshen College.
To encourage you to consider “giving back” to Goshen College as alumni.
