Higher education has traditionally been viewed as a means to break cycles of poverty, enhance social mobility, and meet the needs of a technical economy. However, there is growing concern regarding the effectiveness of this model in light of rising tuition costs, increasing student debt, and ongoing disparities in access to education.
The Role of Higher Education Institutions as Equalizers in Society
At Hamilton College, 27% of the student body consists of U.S. students of color, and 50% of students rely on financial aid. The annual cost of tuition, room, and board at the institution amounts to $85,790. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the average median household income in the United States is $80,610, suggesting that many families struggle to afford even half of the cost of tuition without financial assistance. Critics contend that the privatization and exclusivity of higher education worsen economic inequalities by favoring students with access to financial resources, mentorship, and professional networks. This systemic advantage allows graduates from affluent backgrounds to thrive in a system that inherently supports them, while first-generation students and those from less privileged circumstances face considerable challenges.
Further analysis from The Wall Street Journal indicates that 60% of universities’ operational revenues are derived from tuition fees, raising concerns about the institutions’ dependence on full-paying students. This financial structure may skew admissions processes in favor of those able to afford elite institutions, potentially relegating lower-income students to less selective or publicly funded schools.
Moreover, students on financial aid who gain admission to elite colleges often feel pressured to select majors and experiences that promise higher earnings, rather than pursuing their genuine interests. This emphasis on potential income can detract from the holistic benefits associated with a liberal arts education, making it difficult for students unfamiliar with predominantly affluent and homogeneous academic environments to feel comfortable and integrate.
For higher education to effectively function as an equalizer, mechanisms must be established to enhance affordability, accessibility, and equitable resource distribution—both financially and through academic or social support systems. Hamilton College has taken steps to improve equity in admissions, as evidenced by data indicating that legacy admissions account for only 3-4% of each class, while first-generation students and Pell Grant recipients constitute a significantly larger percentage.
Additionally, the college has introduced several opportunity programs, such as the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), POSSE, and QuestBridge, aimed at diversifying its student population and providing essential support structures. Nevertheless, ongoing and more substantial commitments from institutions are required to ensure equal opportunities in both admissions processes and the overall collegiate experience for all students, regardless of their backgrounds.
(Original source: Hamilton College)
