During my study of institutions for my sociology degree, it has become more and more clear the institution we know as Ithaca College is failing its low income students.  From not addressing needs to comments such as “you are getting as much aid as possible,” the financial aid office is not helping those most in need. When I stepped onto [the] Ithaca College campus, I needed to work immediately. Luckily, my needs were met with limited work-study funds (unfortunately, not a living wage). Needless to say, I ran out of work-study funds twice this year.

The first time was at the beginning of the semester when one job ended, causing me to plead my case for off-campus funds. The second time was this past Monday when I received a call and an e-mail telling me to stop working immediately. While non-work-study students plow away at their guaranteed 20 hours a week, I have been cut off from work at both my on- and off- campus jobs. Most of my questions have been responded to with blank stares and preconceived judgments. Barbara Barns told me to “volunteer my time” for the remainder of the semester. I am graduating $25,000 in debt in a time of recession with a modest degree, and this school wants me to volunteer my time as if I don’t already. I have already agreed to teach three economics courses in Trumansburg and will not let these people down; not the way the prestigious institution that is Ithaca College has let me down.

While my frustrations are personal, my concern is not only for me but for all those silent faces who struggle to afford this institution. In order to increase diversity in Ithaca College classrooms, there needs to be more concern for students from less privileged backgrounds. By sending these students in circles and cutting their funds, we are acting as if the problem doesn’t exist; and in reality, we’re just adding to the gap between the rich and the poor. Just because my mother doesn’t call the school or pay the bills, doesn’t mean I don’t deserve this education. In fact, I would argue people like me have worked harder for it and in turn, deserve respect and proper compensation.

Melanie Serrou ’08