by Brett E. Kennedy, Managing Director
Each day the COVID-19 public health crisis touches more cities, more states and more people. As much of the United States shelters in place, we are seeing tremendous economic ramifications as we hit record unemployment levels. Certainly the federal government is trying to help with loan programs for small businesses and direct cash payments to many Americans. I have been considering what the long-term consequences of this public health crisis will be.
While I am very hopeful that I am being too pessimistic, I wonder whether colleges can return to the traditional model in the Fall term. Will it be prudent to restart a largely residential in-person model of instruction on campuses across the nation? Will colleges feel comfortable re-opening residence halls where social distancing is hardly the norm? Can colleges can safely restart using their traditional practices? The classroom experience with 10 students or 400 students certainly represents a gathering where contagion could easily be spread. The football game against a great college rival with tens of thousands attending hardly seems like a healthy environment given our current approach to flattening the curve.
Colleges are already having these discussions and considering the worst-case scenarios. How long will the accrediting agencies grant flexibility in these uncertain times? Accreditation is critical to class credits being transferred and for colleges to offer federal financial aid. I also question whether the cost model would have to reconsidered by colleges. Are students and parents willing to pay the same tuition rate for an online course as they would for an on-campus course?
Finally, I am concerned that the costs associated with COVID-19 will be the straw that broke the financial backs of many private colleges. Already, many small colleges have had challenges enrolling sufficient students to meet their expenses. Will this newest threat and its associated costs simply be too much to bear?
In these challenging times, I can help students and families understand their options. I can help families find a college that is a financial fit and importantly delivers the education in a way that reflects what you value. I know what questions to ask. If you need help, I am happy to set a free consultation so that we can figure out what is possible in these strange times.