Soaring Housing Costs Stretch Already-Strapped College Students

Badia Weeks, a Temple University student, faces financial challenges due to high housing costs. Despite a 3.5 GPA, she struggles with rent, leading to a $5,000 loan. This issue is widespread, with many students finding housing unaffordable. Efforts like the Hope Centre aim to help, but colleges often see housing as a revenue source, exacerbating the problem. In Philadelphia, housing is scarce, affecting students at various institutions. Programs like DePaul USA offer support, but more solutions are needed. Badia hopes to work more to avoid further debt.

What is Badia Weeks' major at Temple University?

• Exercise and Sports Medicine

• Business Administration

• Psychology

• Computer Science

What financial challenge is Badia Weeks facing?

• Unpaid internships

• Lack of scholarships

• Expensive housing costs

• High tuition fees

According to Sara Goldrick-Rab, what percentage of undergraduates find housing unaffordable?

• One in two

• One in four

• One in three

• Three in four

What is the primary focus of the Hope Centre founded by Goldrick-Rab?

• Offering career counseling

• Providing scholarships

• Finding solutions for financial and logistical barriers

• Improving academic performance

What is a significant challenge faced by public colleges and universities according to Goldrick-Rab?

• Lack of qualified faculty

• Insufficient research funding

• Budget cuts leading to increased housing costs

• Declining student enrollment

What is the monthly cost for students to stay in the DePaul USA housing program?

• $100

• $250

• $200

• $150

What is the main goal of the DePaul USA housing program for students?

• To reduce tuition fees

• To support students in their final years to prevent dropout

• To provide luxury accommodations

• To offer free housing to all students