Separated from cash

Sometimes a higher education earned is not always obtained, as I can personally attest. Colleges are businesses, their primary goal being separation of student and money.

Entering the University of Arkansas at Little Rock as a nontraditional student at 29, I spent 3 ½ wonderful years attending classes, obtaining a higher GPA than I ever did in high school, while working full time nights and weekends.

Never once taking out student loans or grants, I ultimately paid UALR over $25,000 out of my own pocket.

Close to graduating with a major in journalism and minor in English, I received a job offer in my native Hot Springs.

Excited, I consulted with the UALR journalism department. Knowing I had six hours of foreign language left, I explained that my mother was an adjunct instructor at National Park Community College and I could take the prescribed course at night that summer, half-price. Great idea, I was told.

Not really. When I attempted to apply for my degree, I learned UALR would not accept the credits, not having taken them on campus during my last 15 hours.

In other words, $25,000 later, tough luck. It seems UALR, like other colleges, wants all of your money.

I’ve attempted to rectify this, but have been told nothing can be done; $25,000 later, I can say I have learned the meaning of “higher” education. ANTHONY LLOYD

Hot Springs