College is an expensive endeavor, too expensive for most students to pay for alone, but also too expensive for many families to afford for their children. This means that students who grow up in poorer areas of the country, or students whose families fall on hard times, are unable to afford a college education. A universal college education program allows all students the opportunity to go to college, regardless of family financial status. The availability of college loans already helps students across the country go to college; however, college loans include an expected family contribution that can be more than a family is capable of supplying.
In the past, students who performed poorly in high school, or on high school standardized exams, were often refused the opportunity to go to college. Some colleges, primarily junior colleges and trade schools, reduced their requirements, allowing students with poor high school scores to enter school. A college student can dedicate herself to her education in junior college, improve her study habits and transfer to a University after she finishes her basic curriculum. This option provides a second chance for students with a poor academic record in high school. Under a universal college education, junior colleges would serve a similar function, providing an academic redemption for students.
The trade school college option provides technical training in various specialized fields. This includes training the ever-changing technological fields as well as specialized support fields, such as medical tech, computer support and dental support fields. Under a universal college education system, even students who may not wish to attend college, have the opportunity to spend a short time in trade school and move into a better career.
During an economic recession, or any period of economic turmoil, families have more trouble paying for a student's college education. A universal college education program gives all students the option of going to college, even at a time when employment opportunities are at a low. This option gives students the chance to spend a few years studying, giving the economy time to recover before they enter the work force.