Editor's note: This letter originally ran in print on April 10, 2013.
I am writing in response to the FUSS candidates’ letter entitled "Plenty of evidence to oppose tuition plan." As FUSS candidates claim, I would like to ask, "What is the rate for a guaranteed tuition model?” The rate is the key to judge whether this model is good or bad for students and is not yet known. I have researched guaranteed tuition models for other institutions and each institution has a different procedure. What kind of "data" leads the FUSS candidates to conclude that the model is bad? By data I mean numerical, computable and comparable values. Only with such data can we make the judgment and comparison about the guaranteed tuition model. Put simply, without concrete numerical values, how can we know whether we will pay more or pay less?
Second, in the letter, the FUSS candidates state: "Furthermore, the same testimony showed that after four years students would be paying approximately the same total cost, regardless of the tuition model used. Predictability should not be confused with affordability." I agree with the statement that "predictability should not be confused with affordability." However, I have two questions regarding this: First, if the new model does not increase the total cost (as described in the letter), why would you say it is bad? Secondly, unpredictability causes negative experience whereas predictability enhances performance, which has been demonstrated through much research. This is the advantage of the new model, given the total cost, is approximately the same.
In short, I believe the tuition issue is important for all students on campus. However, without further concrete data, it is too soon to judge a model. Successful leadership should have the capacity to make a judgment based on comprehensive facts, including concrete numerical values, but not jump to the conclusion by unwarranted emotional feelings.
Jiuqing (Joe) Cheng is a graduate student studying psychology and a candidate for graduate senator on the VOICE ticket.
