Loyola’s low enrollment numbers and rising tuition costs have come into light on both local and national stages. Both The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal have written articles within the last month about universities across the country that are suffering from low enrollment numbers. Loyola made both lists as an example.
The financial problems that affect Loyola result partially from problems that affect universities across the U.S. As college students, we have become familiar with the economic problems in the U.S. that, for some students, have existed before we entered high school.
The financial problems at Loyola, however, affect Loyola more intensely than most schools in the country. The plan will take time to fully take effect, and we will continue to feel the repercussions of the past five years for years since before the problem is fixed.
When faced with crisis, it is easy to begin over-scrutinizing the situation and pointing fingers. However, in placing blame, we do not find the quick solution. Repairing problems with enrollment in higher education will take a long time, according to universial officials. Smart action can help Loyola heal.
We at The Maroon implore students to be part of this healing process. It is more important now for students to communicate with both administrative officials and student representatives at this time when they are looking for what students, faculty and staff love about Loyola. You have an opportunity to make Loyola a school that truly reflects what the student body wants. Ask yourself why you decided to come to this school and what makes you love Loyola. Tell your school representatives want you want so that we keep the activities and events that make Loyola great.
Loyola provides several avenues through which students can make their voices heard. Loyola’s faculty and administration can either relay concerns in committees or point students toward someone who can help with the problem. The Student Government Association is composed of individuals who have committed to representing all students and making smart changes.
Student organizations, such as the Residential Hall Association and organizations within mission and ministry also provide avenues for students to identify and implement improvements at the university. If you, like several other students at Loyola, do not have the time to devote to a student organization, drop one of your representatives an email or fill out one of the surveys administration passes out in the Danna Student Center.
Finally, we at The Maroon are committed to informing the student body about what students like, what students think and what works at this university. We strive to remain a forum for discussion and an avenue for sharing opinions. We ask students to use us as a resource during this process and to remember that the immensely powerful voice of a united student body has even more potential to create positive change in a time of crisis. The responsibility, as always, lies with the student body to point Loyola in the best direction.
This editorial is the majority opinion of the editorial board named above.
