Assignment 2: Cost and Benefit Analysis of College

I plan on attending Brigham Young University for college. Because The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is academically affiliated with the University, tuition for a member of that church for the academic year 2006-2007 was $3,620. Tuition for non-members of the church is $7,240. Since I'm a member of the church, I will be paying the member (LDS) tuition. Room and board for the year was $5,640. Books and supplies were estimated at $1,380. Other personal expenses were estimated at $1,740. So, total expenses for attending Brigham Young University for one year as a member of the church is $12,380. The university also has a great scholarship program. First of all, the tuition is relatively inexpensive due to the generous subsidy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. According to the Incoming Freshman Matrix (http://saas.byu.edu/depts/scholarships/matrix.aspx), I will receive full tuition for at least 2 semesters. Along with the typical expenses for tuition, books, and room and board, there will also be money spent for social activities and travel. I'll plan on coming home during the summer, and during Christmas, so plane tickets for that kind of travel will total around $900.

Yes, college is expensive, but there are many benefits. I will receive an education and a degree, which will in turn help me obtain a good job that is better than most not requiring a degree. I will have a more comfortable life because of my job and a better job atmosphere compared to others. I will form lasting relationships with friends and teachers which may be invaluable to me in the future. By attending BYU, I will be able to utilize the vast amounts of people and their networks to further my achievements in life. Doors of opportunity will be opened unto me.

In analysis of these costs and benefits of college, I would conclude that BYU would be the correct choice of a college for me, and that it is definitely worth it. Yes, I will owe some people some money when I graduate, but my standard of living and all the other benefits outweigh such debts. I see college as a necessary venture in this life, because of the so many experiences and learning opportunities that will arise from attending a university.