n A great deal of students – as well as a considerable portion of Boston University students – struggle to pay for college, and as a result, are frequently forced to essentially choose between future financial security or the complete development of their academic potential. This difficult decision, which all students must encounter in varying degrees, is one symptom of the growing disparity between the rich and poor; as a result, financial aid is one of the few political issues that inevitably affects all students directly in some form.

In the interest of the 7,500 students we represent – and 31,000 students at BU – the College of Arts and Sciences Student Government of Boston University is writing to express our ubiquitous opposition against the budget reconciliation bill. The included $9 billion cut to the federal government’s loan programs could have substantial repercussions within the Boston University community, as well as all the students in Massachusetts.

We depend on Congress to protect our rights as people and students, especially as tuition rises and makes higher education a more difficult prospect for every student every day. The passage of this bill could inhibit or exclude students altogether from an opportunity that should always remain available to the people in our country: education that is accessible to students regardless of economic status.

To keep our democracy strong, our nation competitive and our colleges open to all students who wish to increase their potential through academic growth, we urge you to vote against the reconciliation bill and keep students’ chances for higher education intact.

The CAS Forum Executive Board

Olga Karanikos President 2007

Lorrie Najam Vice President 2006

Phumelele Trasada Vice President of Student Affairs 2008

Don Slaboszewski Vice President of Financial Affairs 2008

Tricia Choi Vice President of Internal Affairs 2007