Higher Education Inquirer: Increasingly Relevant

The Higher Education continues to grow. We believe our growth stems largely from our increasing relevance and in our truth telling, which other higher education news outlets are unwilling to do in these times.

Our devotion to transparency, accountability, and value for our readers guides us. 

We invite a diverse group of guest authors who are willing to share their truths. The list includes academics from various disciplines, advocates, activists, journalists, consultants, and whistleblowers. We back up all of this work with data and critical analysis, irrespective of politics and social conventions. We are willing to challenge the higher education establishment, including trustees, donors, and university presidents.

Our articles covering student loan debt, academic labor, nonviolent methods of protest, and freedom of speech are unparalleled. And we are not shy about including other issues that matter to our readers, including stories and videos about mental health, student safety, technology (such as artificial intelligence), academic cheating, and the nature of work.  And matters of of war, peace, democracy, and climate change. 

Our focus, though mainly on US higher education, also has an international appeal. 

Some of our work takes years to produce, through careful documentation of primary and secondary sources, database analysis, and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. We share all of this information for everyone to see, at no cost.  

Of course, we could not operate without all your voices. We welcome all your voices. Something few other sources are willing to do.    

New Findings Highlight Borrowers' Student Loan Repayment Challenges and Impact on Key Milestones (Laurel Road)

[Editor's note: The Higher Education Inquirer is presenting this press release for information only. This is not an endorsement of the organizations mentioned in article.]

NEW YORK, Jan. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new survey, The Student Debt Dilemma: The Impact on Financial Milestones, released today by Laurel Road, a digital banking platform of KeyBank with specialized offerings for healthcare and business professionals, in partnership with Luminary, a global professional education and networking platform, and conducted by Kantar, reveals the obstacles borrowers face in managing student loan repayment – from information overload to confidence gaps.

The survey of 1,714 U.S. adults found that 70% felt overwhelmed when navigating repayment options, with 76% of respondents experiencing an overload of information, underscoring the significant anxiety and confusion faced by borrowers. These findings underscore the impact of debt on milestone life events as well as the difficulty of navigating an intricate repayment system.

Challenges amid Regulatory Changes
Recent changes and fluctuating regulations in the federal student loan system have created ongoing uncertainty for borrowers navigating their repayment options. According to the survey, 82% of respondents aged 25 to 44 reported feeling "unsure what plans/options are right for me," demonstrating the ever-changing environment as a primary pain point.

Additionally, 58% of individuals in the combined 25-44 age group reported feeling moderately overwhelmed – a significantly higher percentage compared to the 45 and older age group (34.8%)– emphasizing the unique challenges younger borrowers face in making informed decisions.

Low Levels of Confidence in Repayment Strategies
Navigating student loan repayment is a complicated process, requiring borrowers to understand available options, conduct thorough research to identify loan management opportunities, and select the most appropriate repayment plan or forgiveness program.

According to the survey, 26% of respondents noted that they did not have a plan for managing their student loans, while 20% indicated they planned to use Federal Income-Driven Repayment, and 15% intended to pursue the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

Confidence is another major concern, as 61% of borrowers surveyed reported a lack of confidence in their repayment strategies while only 13% reported feeling confident in their approach.

"This study confirms everything we believed to be true relating to confusion and lack of confidence student loan borrowers face today. Information overload and ambiguity has left borrowers yearning to understand the repayment and forgiveness options available to them, and to receive this information in a clear, concise manner," said Alyssa Schaefer, General Manager and Chief Experience Officer at Laurel Road. "Laurel Road is at the forefront of helping borrowers gain their confidence by offering free consultations with student loan experts who can help them make informed decisions, navigate the complexities of repayment, and build the confidence needed to reach their financial goals – ultimately securing their financial futures."

Impact of Student Loans on Financial Futures
In addition to being difficult to navigate, the student loan landscape has the potential to largely affect borrowers' overall financial well-being and long-term goals. The survey revealed that student loan debt has delayed significant life milestones for respondents, with borrowers reporting the following impacts:

• 79% struggle to save for emergencies or retirement
• 75% are unable to invest for the future
• 52% are unable to purchase a home
• 35% are postponing starting a family

"Luminary has seen first-hand the impact of student loan debt on our Members, from a lack of understanding about available options to the affect it has on an individual's mental health due to stress, worry and anxiety, " said Luminary founder and CEO Cate Luzio. "While this isn't new information for us, given our longstanding partnership with Laurel Road, we felt this survey was necessary to demonstrate the real toll it's taking on people. As we prepare for a new administration in 2025, this is top of mind as we continue developing programming to educate and inform those affected."

Delays in life milestones not only affect individual wellbeing but also pose broader risks to economic stability and financial security. Through online resources and student loan consultations, borrowers can gain confidence in understanding and tackling student loan repayment and get on track for important financial milestones.

For additional results from this survey, visit http://laurelroad.com/resources/financial-survey-student-debt-dilemma/ 

Methodology
This survey was conducted online from September 30, 2024, to October 31, 2024 among 1,714 U.S. adults with either private or federal student loans, by Luminary and the Kantar Profiles Respondent Hub. The primary age group analyzed ranged from 25–44 years old, though responses were collected from ages 18–65+. The gender breakdown of the respondents was 47% male, 51% female, 2% non-binary, and 0.4% preferring not to answer. Statistical significance testing was completed between groups to ensure the results did not occur by chance. 

About Laurel Road
Laurel Road is a digital banking platform and brand of KeyBank that provides tailored offerings to support the financial wellbeing of healthcare and business professionals. Laurel Road's banking and lending solutions – including Checking and High Yield Savings accounts, Student Loan Forgiveness Counseling, Student Loan Refinancing, Mortgages, Personal Loans, and more – provide our members with a simplified, personalized experience that helps them better navigate their financial journey with ease.

Laurel Road has reimagined banking and financial management for physicians and dentists through Laurel Road for Doctors, a tailored digital experience made up of banking, insights, and exclusive benefits to provide the financial help and peace of mind they need through each career stage. In spring of 2022, Laurel Road also launched Loyalty Checking, the first checking account designed with nurses in mind, furthering the company's commitment to healthcare professionals. Visit www.laurelroad.com for more information.

About Luminary
Luminary is a global membership-based professional education and networking platform created to address and impact the systemic challenges faced by women and underrepresented communities across all industries and sectors, and through all phases of their professional journey. Founded in 2018 by former finance executive Cate Luzio, Luminary is a dynamic, gender-inclusive, multi-generational, and intersectional community focused on creating connection, collaboration, and change through global expert- and Member-led programming, as well as services, activations, content, and culture. In addition, Members have access to perks and amenities including a vast digital content library; a five-floor building in the heart of NoMad in New York City that is home to work and social spaces, including a rooftop restaurant; and entree to Luminary's international Partner Network of women-forward communities. Luminary continues to build its ecosystem of high-touch engagement for both individual and enterprise members and has grown to be a multimillion-dollar global B2C and B2B business with more than 15,000 members and over 100 enterprise members. In late 2023, the company acquired The Cru to add to its robust product offering, and in January 2025 announced its acquisition of Hey Mama.

Media Contact: laurelroadpr@kwtglobal.com

Frances Perkins, Secretary if Labor (Friday's Labor Folklore)

View and share as a webpage. Friday's Labor Folklore

Thank you Frances Perkins! First Woman Cabinet Secretary Longest-serving Secretary of Labor Key Architect of the New Deal

"I came to Washington to work for God, FDR and the millions of forgotten, plain common working men."

Born in Boston, Mass. (1880) and graduated high school in Worcester. Earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry and physics from Mount Holyoke College where she became involved in progressive politics and the suffrage movement. Held a variety of teaching positions and volunteered at settlement houses, including Hull House in Chicago, where she worked with Jane Addams. She moved to Philadelphia where she worked as a social worker and enrolled in the Wharton School where she studied economics. Moved to Greenwich Village, where she attended Columbia University, earning a master's degree in 1910. She became active in the suffrage movement, speaking on street corners and attending protests.

Achieved statewide prominence as head of the New York office of the National Consumers League where she lobbied for better working hours and conditions. As a professor of sociology she taught classes at Adelphi College. She witnessed the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, a pivotal event in her life. As the appointed head of the Committee on Safety of the City of New York she promoted fire safety; in 1912 she was instrumental in getting the New York legislature to pass a "54-hour bill" capping the number of hours women and children could work.

She married Paul Caldwell Wilson, an economist and was insistent on keeping her birth name. Gave birth to a daughter, Susanna, in 1916. Throughout the remainder of her marriage her husband would be institutionalized frequently for mental illness. She supported herself and raised their young daughter alone. In 1929 New York governor Franklin Roosevelt appointed her as the state's Industrial Commissioner where she championed the minimum wage, unemployment insurance, workplace health and safety and an end to child labor. In 1933 President Franklin Roosevelt appointed her the Secretary of Labor becoming the first woman to hold a cabinet position in the United States. She helped shape the New Deal, working to design and implement the Social Security Act of 1935.

She helped millions of people get back to work during the Great Depression and she fought for the rights of workers to organize and bargain collectively. Was the longest-serving Secretary of Labor (12 years) whose successful programs were supported consistently by President Roosevelt. Following her career in government service she remained active as a teacher and lecturer until her death in 1965, at age 85. In 1980 President Jimmy Carter named the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Labor as "The Frances Perkins Department of Labor Building." On Dec. 16, 2024 President Joe Biden designated the Frances Perkins Homestead National Historic Landmark in Newcastle, Maine. President Biden's designation was issued as he directed in Executive Order 14121, Recognizing and Honoring Women's History (March 27, 2024).

In 1933, Roosevelt summoned Perkins to ask her to join his cabinet. Perkins presented Roosevelt with a long list of labor programs for which she would fight, from Social Security to minimum wage. "Nothing like this has ever been done in the United States before," she told Roosevelt. "You know that, don’t you?" (Wikipedia)

from the play I Am Not Content an Hour with Frances Perkins by Stephen LaRocque ------------------------ A staged reading by Kathie Mack (video : 1.51 min.)

Thank You Frances Perkins (song : 2.21 min.) by Austin Moffa

Friday's Labor Folklore Saul Schniderman, Editor forward to a friend

Sources from which I summarized, paraphrased or quoted directly: Wikipedia, "President Biden designates Frances Perkins homestead as new national monument," press release, 12/16/2022; Executive Order 14121, Section 3a report, Dec. 2024; Hall of Secretaries, U. S. Dept. of Labor.

National Survey Finds Strong Faculty Support for Free Speech, Diverse Viewpoints, and Civil Discourse in the Classroom Amid an Alarming Decline in Academic Freedom (AAC&U)

Washington, DC—The American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) today released the results of a national survey of faculty perceptions and experiences related to academic freedom and civil discourse in higher education. Funded by the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations and conducted in partnership with the American Association of University Professors and NORC at the University of Chicago, the survey was administered online and included faculty of all ranks and disciplines at public and private, two-year and four-year institutions throughout the United States.

The survey found clear evidence that faculty value diverse student perspectives, encourage civil discourse among students, and support free speech in the classroom. Moreover, faculty see educational value in classroom discussions of controversial topics or issues and do not support censoring course materials. Overall, however, the survey results point to a recent and ongoing decline in academic freedom across American higher education—a decline perceived by more than a third of all faculty members across a wide variety of indicators.

Faculty today are concerned about growing restrictions on their academic freedom and worry that expressing their views freely may lead to online harassment or professional repercussions. In the current climate, faculty are less willing to address controversial topics and more likely to self-censor. The survey also found evidence of a chilling effect produced by the spread of legislative restrictions, enacted since 2021, on the teaching, learning, and discussion of so-called “divisive concepts” related to race, gender, LGBTQ+ identities, and American history.

“Without the academic freedom to explore significant and controversial questions, higher education’s mission of advancing knowledge and educating students for work, life, and citizenship cannot be fulfilled,” said AAC&U President Lynn Pasquerella. “The results of this national survey provide the most compelling evidence yet of the significant and alarming erosion of academic freedom across American higher education. The findings should serve as a wake-up call for campus leaders, policymakers, and anyone who understands the vital role higher education plays in improving the lives of individuals and communities, driving innovation and economic growth, and sustaining our democracy.”

Selected Findings

• More than 1 in 3 faculty say they have less academic freedom today when it comes to teaching content without any interference (35%), speaking freely as citizens (36%), and speaking freely when participating in institutional governance (38%).
• More than half (53%) are concerned about their ability to express what they believe as scholars to be correct statements about the world and worry that their beliefs or activities as faculty members may make them targets of online harassment.
• Significant percentages of faculty have faced restrictions on what they can say in faculty and department meetings (36%) or on social media (33%) and what they teach in their courses (24%).
• 52% of faculty have altered the language in something they have written in order to avoid controversy; most refrain from using terms or words they believe might be perceived as offensive by their students (62%), by administrators (57%), by other faculty members (57%), or by institutional staff (54%).
• 53% believe classroom discussion of controversial topics or issues should be encouraged and should occur frequently because of its educational value.
• 93% believe faculty should intentionally invite student perspectives from all sides of an issue.
• 57% encourage mutually respectful disagreement among the students in their courses either “quite a bit” or “a great deal,” and 70% believe that the amount of mutually respectful disagreement among their students is “about right.”
• Just 12% believe classroom discussions should be halted if views are expressed that some students feel causes harm to certain groups of people, and just 5% believe a required reading or other assignment should be dropped if it includes such views.

“Our hope is that this study inspires, in equal measure, both reflection and action across higher education,” said the report’s coauthor, Ashley Finley, Vice President for Research and Senior Advisor to the President at AAC&U. “Though colleges and universities may lack influence over legislative actions, there is much collective power in their ability to address faculty mental health, encourage respectful discourse within and beyond the classroom, and invite thoughtful debate about the meaning and applications of academic freedom within institutions.”

A full report on the findings is available for download at www.aacu.org/academicfreedom.

The survey was conducted online between December 7, 2023, and February 12, 2024, by NORC at the University of Chicago. The survey sample included 164,815 individuals who, during the preceding twelve-month period, had instructional duties and/or served in a faculty role at a two- or four-year public or private college or university in the United States.

The survey instrument was developed under the guidance of a national advisory group: Samuel Abrams, Sarah Lawrence College; Cory Clark, University of Pennsylvania; Jonathan Friedman, PEN America; Isaac Kamola, Trinity College; April Kelly, Elizabethtown College; Frederick Lawrence, Phi Beta Kappa; Kenann McKenzie-DeFranza, Gordon College; Demetri Morgan, Loyola University Chicago; and Andrew Seligsohn, Public Agenda.

About AAC&U

The American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) is a global membership organization dedicated to advancing the democratic purposes of higher education by promoting equity, innovation, and excellence in liberal education. Through our programs and events, publications and research, public advocacy, and campus-based projects, AAC&U serves as a catalyst and facilitator for innovations that improve educational quality and equity and that support the success of all students. In addition to accredited public and private, two-year and four-year colleges and universities, and state higher education systems and agencies throughout the United States, our membership includes degree-granting higher education institutions around the world as well as other organizations and individuals. To learn more, visit www.aacu.org.

College Students Guide to Mental Health (ABC News)

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, nearly one in three young adults 18 to 25 have experienced a mental illness. Psychologist Mia Nosanow joins “GMA” for more.

Get Wise, Guys: The Perils of the Sports Betting Culture

The NCAA Calls it a Nightmare 

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of betting on college sports, the potential for quick money, and the social aspect of it all. But let's peel back the curtain and examine the real dangers that lurk beneath the surface of the sports betting culture.  

The Illusion of Easy Money
While it may seem like a simple way to make extra cash, the reality is much more complex. The odds are stacked against you, and the house always has an edge. Chasing losses can lead to a dangerous cycle of debt and despair.

The Mental Toll
The emotional rollercoaster of sports betting can take a significant toll on your mental health. The highs of winning can be fleeting, while the lows of losing can be devastating. The constant stress, anxiety, and disappointment can lead to serious mental health issues.

The Social Impact
Gambling addiction can strain relationships with friends and family. It can lead to isolation, secrecy, and a breakdown of trust. Your academic performance may suffer as you prioritize betting over your studies.

Get Wise, Stay Wise
While it's tempting to indulge in the thrill of sports betting, it's important to approach it with a level head. If you are underage, don't do it.  If you are over 25 and don't have an addiction, stick to a few small bets and a small budget, and know when to walk away. Don't drink or do drugs before, during, or after wagering. If you find yourself struggling with a gambling addiction, seek help immediately.  And if someone notices problems before you do, consider them an ally, and listen. 

Remember, the true joy of sports lies in the game itself, not in the financial outcome.

The National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) is operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling. The helpline serves as a one-stop hub connecting people looking for assistance with a gambling problem to local resources. This network includes 28 contact centers which cover all 50 states and the U.S. territories. The National Problem Gambling Helpline offers call, text and chat services 24/7/365.

Competency-Based Education and the Consequences of Punching the Ticket in Record Time

Competency-based education (CBE) is one way for consumers to save time and money when a professional credential is necessary for employment and promotion. It allows busy adult learners to avoid the boredom of being taught things they already know through experience and prior training. And it can be less costly, at least in the short run. For employers, it can get more people into the labor pool.

Economically, using CBE for a degree is one way to mitigate the hyper-credentialism that exists in many professional fields: a hyper-credentialism that closed doors and more student loan debt. But using CBE to get over the system may result in significant downsides for job seekers, workers, and consumers of medical, mental health, and social services.  

Buyer Beware

Professionals who hold private career certifications or licensing in these areas are the best candidates for competency-based learning. This is especially true in Information Technology and nursing.  

 

There are downsides to buying into a CBE program, however. If you plan to move to another company or organization, the CBE degree or certificate may not hold as much value to prospective employers.

Consumers of medical and mental health and social services should be aware that just because a professional has an advanced degree or certificate that they have significantly more skills--even if the credentials are from an elite school.  This is true of graduates from CBE programs and other online offerings, where oversight may be limited, and cheating may be rampant. 

Resources to Support Communities Impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton (US Department of Education)

Under President Biden’s and Vice President Harris’ direction, the Administration continues to mobilize a robust, intensive, and whole-of-government response to the impacts of Hurricane Helene. As life-saving response efforts continue in heavily impacted areas, the Administration is also working to ensure communities across the Southeast have prompt access to federal resources to purchase essential items and begin their road to recovery and rebuilding. 

Last week, the President and Vice President traveled throughout the region, meeting with community leaders and reaffirming that the Administration will be with impacted communities every step of the way, no matter how long it takes, with the support they need (President’s statement and White House fact sheets 1 and 2).

The Administration also pre-positioned additional personnel and resources to prepare for the impacts of Hurricane Milton (President’s remarks and White House fact sheets 1, 2, and 3).

The Department closely follows the impacts of natural disasters on students, educators, staff, families, and others. Schools are a critical aspect of whole community recovery and provide education, nutrition, physical fitness, mental health counseling, and other resources to students and their families during day-to-day operations. When schools close following a natural disaster, it is crucial that these resources remain available to the community and that schools are reopened and operating as soon as possible. In 2018, to better assist K-12 schools, the agency’s Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) formed a Disaster Recovery Unit (DRU). The agency’s Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) and Federal Student Aid (FSA) office support postsecondary institutions.

In a press release and updated Homeroom blog, the Department curated resources, including several from other federal agencies and partner organizations, to restore the teaching and learning environment. Find more resources on the agency’s Natural Disaster Resources web page.

Letter to an incoming freshman

Dear Freshman,

Congratulations on this exciting new chapter! College is a time of immense growth, discovery, and opportunity. Done right, there will be uncertainty, challenges, long hours of study, and difficult decisions to make for your future self. 

Who am I? Where am I going? Why am I here? 

College is a transformative experience where you’ll discover more about yourself than ever before. It’s essential to examine and understand your identity, values, and goals. Reflect on your upbringing, your family’s influence, and the experiences that have shaped who you are today. This self-awareness will guide you as you explore new academic interests, build lasting friendships, and determine your career path. Seek guidance when needed, and embrace the opportunities that come your way.

 

 

Utilize the Campus Services You Pay For

College campuses offer resources to support your academic and personal success. Take advantage of services like tutoring, academic advising, and counseling. These professionals are here to help you overcome challenges, reach your goals, and make the most of your college experience. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness. Explore the various campus organizations and clubs that align with your interests to build a supportive community and develop new skills.

Seek Out the Best Teachers

The best teachers are more than just educators; they are mentors and guides. They inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and create a supportive learning environment. These individuals go above and beyond to help students reach their full potential. They possess a passion for their subject matter that is contagious, and they have a genuine care for their students' well-being. Seek out professors who challenge you intellectually, encourage your creativity, and provide constructive feedback. Building strong relationships with your professors can significantly enhance your college experience.   

Solidarity and Belonging

College is filled with diversity and complexity. Embrace this diversity as a chance to learn and grow. Seek out communities where you feel a sense of belonging, whether it's based on shared interests, cultural heritage, or academic pursuits. Remember, your voice matters, and your experiences are valuable. By connecting with others, you’ll build a strong support network that will sustain you through your college years and beyond.

Avoid Peer Pressure

College is a time for exploration and new friendships, but it’s also important to stay true to yourself. Peer pressure can be intense, but remember that you have the power to make your own choices. Surround yourself with supportive friends who encourage your goals. If you find yourself in a situation that makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to say no. Your well-being is paramount, and it’s okay to prioritize your values over fitting in. Trust your instincts and seek support from trusted mentors or faculty members if needed.

Cultural Competence

As you embark on this exciting chapter of your life, it’s crucial to develop cultural competence. Understanding and appreciating different cultures is essential for personal growth and success. Cultivating cultural competence means being open-minded, respectful, and empathetic towards individuals from various backgrounds. It involves learning about different customs, traditions, and perspectives, and challenging your own biases. By embracing diversity, you’ll enrich your college experience, build stronger relationships, and become a more well-rounded individual.

Navigating Challenges

It's natural to feel a sense of alienation at times, especially when facing new environments and academic pressures. Know that these feelings are temporary, and you will find your place. Resilience is key to overcoming obstacles. Challenges are opportunities for growth, and they will shape you into a stronger and more capable individual. Cultivate a growth mindset, believing in your ability to learn and improve.

Financial Reality and Planning

Let's address the elephant in the room: student loan debt. It's a significant challenge facing many graduates. While education is an investment in your future, it's crucial to approach it with financial prudence. Explore scholarship opportunities, work-study programs, and part-time jobs to minimize your reliance on loans. Create a budget, track your expenses, and understand the terms of your loans. Your future self will thank you for being proactive about your finances.

Additionally, the job market can be competitive, and underemployment is a reality for many recent graduates. While college provides a strong foundation, it’s essential to develop practical skills and experience through internships, co-ops, and extracurricular activities. Network with professionals in your field, and be prepared to adapt your career goals as needed.

Safety and Well-being

College can be an exhilarating time, but it's important to prioritize your safety and well-being. Alcohol and drug abuse can have severe consequences, including academic failure, impaired judgment, and increased risk of sexual assault. It's crucial to consume alcohol responsibly (or not at all) and to avoid drugs altogether.

Sexual assault is a serious issue on college campuses. Learn about consent, bystander intervention, and campus resources. Trust your instincts, and never hesitate to seek help if you feel unsafe.

Creating a Meaningful Experience

College is more than just academics. Explore your passions, try new things, and step outside your comfort zone. When you are stable academically, engage in extracurricular activities, volunteer, and connect with your community. These experiences will enrich your life and help you discover your purpose.

Justice, Equity, and Fairness

College is a place to question, challenge, and advocate for what you believe in. Be informed about social issues and engage in thoughtful conversations. Your voice has the power to create positive change. Remember, justice, equity, and fairness are fundamental to a thriving society. Be an advocate for yourself and others, and strive to create a more inclusive and equitable world.

Taking Care of Yourself

Prioritize your mental and physical health. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and find ways to manage stress productively. Don’t hesitate to seek support from campus counseling services or other resources. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's essential for your success and well-being.

You are capable of achieving great things. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your successes, and never stop learning. Your future self is counting on you!

With support, determination, careful planning, and a strong commitment to safety, you can navigate the complexities of college life and emerge as a well-rounded, resilient individual.  And don't forget to write back. 

Sincerely, The Higher Education Inquirer

We believe in your potential.