Sacramento City College students express that the rise of the cost of living has made it more difficult to focus on their school work.
Students pointed out rent as an important issue. With prices of homes increasing across the city, some students expressed they have had difficulty keeping a place to live.
Others said the prices of groceries have been a massive hemorrhage. Basic everyday items have increased wildly in price, forcing some students to keep a tighter purse string or cut back on wants to focus on needs entirely.
“I think it’s getting harder to keep up with everything,” said City College student Mahogany Hazzard. “Prices keep going up, and it feels like you’re always trying to catch up.”
The cost of gas as a result of the Iran war and other commuting expenses is another financial burden for City College students. The war has disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which normally carries about 20% of the world’s oil, and because of that, supply has dropped and prices have increased. Oil prices have risen sharply since the war began, pushing gas prices higher in the United States and making it more expensive for students to get to campus.
“I have to think about how much I’m spending just to get to school,” said student James Tijam. “It adds up more than people realize.”
Hazzard agreed that the cost of transportation is a big burden.
“Gas is expensive, and it makes it harder to get to school sometimes,” said Hazzard.
The rise of the cost of living has also forced students to put in more hours at work, although this is positive for them financially, this hinders students academically.
“Balancing work and school is stressful,” said student Jeremiah Rutledge. “You’re trying to make money but also stay on top of your classes.”
Some students said financial aid does not fully cover their needs, especially with the rising rent and food prices. Others rely on family support or multiple jobs to stay enrolled.
“It feels like even with help, it’s still not enough sometimes,” said Hazzard. “You’re always thinking about what you have to pay next.”
Despite the challenges, students said they are committed to finishing school even as financial issues continue to grow.
