Solé Scott – Features Editor
Minimum wage is not enough for students in college who are dependent on themselves for financial support.
The minimum wage in Connecticut is $15, yet college students need more money to pay their way to an education.
Communications major Chelsea Safo, a sophomore, previously had a job on campus but now works off campus.
“If I’m going to be practical, college is hella expensive,” said Safo.
Elementary Education major Cheraynne Martin, a senior, works on campus at the information desk at the Adanti Student Center.
“We are all college students; I feel like we have a lot of stuff to pay for,” said Martin.
Nursing major Trudy Annor, a sophomore, works at various dorms on campus as a desk attendant.
“I don’t really have to pay bills or anything, so all I have to buy is my nails, food and hair,” said Annor.
As inflation increases, everyday necessities become more and more expensive.
“It’s a little more cheaper for me because I am a commuter student, so like I do save money on some stuff,” said Safo.
According to the United States Census Bureau, younger people in Connecticut have a higher percentage rate of being in poverty compared to adults. The poverty rate overall is 12.6% in the nation and 9.8% in Connecticut.
To live comfortably in the state of Connecticut, they need to make tens of thousands of dollars as the average salary is $88,429.
“I get paid $15 an hour for both of my jobs, and it is kind of good for me because I am able to afford some of my bills and food for me in my dorm,” said Alicea.
Out of state tuition to attend Southern Connecticut State University is $19,940 for the 2023 and 2024 academic year.
In state tuition costs $6,664 for the 2023 and 2024 academic year.
The tuition bill does not include University fees, housing, meal plans, books, or transportation.
Today, it is hard for young people to juggle classes and jobs that do not pay enough.
“As a commuter student, I do have to pay for gas every week, and minimum wage does not cover that,” said Safo.
Financial aid can cover only so much. Some students do not receive enough to cover their tuition, so families have to take out loans, which deepens their debt.
“I’m broke,” said Martin.
Even though minimum wage is increasing in January by 69 cents. That will still not make a difference in students being able to afford the necessities of life.
