Officials have attributed the low participation to such things as high education costs and long hours at a job. Graduating in five years or more is a trend which has become an educational norm over time. As long as people take the initiative to pursue an education, the pace in which they do it shouldn't attempt to be changed. Students today face higher debts and different social strains than students of past generations. While the contract program may show students that graduating in four years is possible, it isn't always what students want.
Students know what their goals are better than anyone.
Accomplishing the goals will take most students' time, effort and experience they cannot afford for only four years. So instead focusing on the low four-year rate, officials should take it as a sign students care enough about their education to stick it out for as long as they are. Copyright 1997 by the Iowa State Daily Publications Board. All rights reserved. No redistribution without the express written consent of the Iowa State Daily Editor in Chief.