TU Tuesday

UAlbany students protest tuition increases, budget cuts

Today at the University of Albany many students left their classes to protest tuition increases and budget cuts.  The students were chanting and yelling because they want the building president, George Philip, to give back some of his salary to help decrease tuition prices.  They said "let us in, we paid for this building" to really show the school board that it was unfair to increase tuition and cut down the Tuition Assistance Program for the students who need the most help.  The total budget cuts were "$300 million in state budget cuts to the State University of New York, $300 annual tuition increase and $31 million trimming of the Tuition Assistance Program." 

The students at UAlbany were not the only ones participating in the protest.  They were part of a statewide protest which was organized by Save Our SUNY.  This group has opposed budget cuts and the raising of teacher and administrative salaries.  Last year the school announced that they were cutting majors to save money.  I think this is very unfair to the students because if their major was one of the ones that was cut what are they suppose to do?  Their choices will be limited and they could have to switch majors or even schools.  I know I would be upset if my highschool were to cut the club that I was in.  It isnt fair for students especially if the money is going to administators when it could be put to better use for the students and the school.  One of the students said "It means they won't listen to us, it means they won't listen to our demands," which really shows how upset these students are.  The president finally agreed to meet with them in private and had an hour-long discussion.

1. What did the president and the students agree on?
2. Would the school board consider cutting the administartive salaries to put back majors?
3. Will protests continue?
4. Will many people have to drop out of school because they cant pay tuition?
5. What will students do if their major is cut?