When Dreams Cost Too Much: The Struggles of Students Facing Financial Problems

"Times New Roman"">Education is often seen as the key to a better life. Every
student dreams of studying well, getting a good job, and supporting their
family. But for some students, this dream becomes very hard to achieve due to
financial problems. Many students come from poor families where their parents
cannot afford college fees or other educational expenses. Because of this,
these students face serious challenges in their academic life. Some are forced
to leave their studies, while others take wrong paths to earn money. This
article highlights the problems faced by such students, how it affects their
future, and what can be done to help them.

"Times New Roman"">College education in India and many other countries is
expensive. Apart from tuition fees, students have to spend money on books,
hostel fees, food, transportation, and sometimes even private coaching. For
families living on daily wages or small incomes, it becomes very difficult to
pay for all this. Parents often borrow money or take loans to support their
child’s education. But when they cannot pay, the student is left helpless. Some
students try their best to manage part-time jobs while studying, but even that
is not enough. Many colleges do not allow outside jobs, or the job timings
clash with classes. Slowly, the pressure builds up. These students feel
embarrassed among their classmates because they cannot afford basic needs like
a laptop, proper clothes, or even exam fees. This emotional stress adds to
their financial burden.

"Times New Roman"">When students are desperate for money, they may make bad
decisions. Some fall into the trap of illegal activities, like cheating, online
scams, or getting involved with bad company. They are promised quick money, but
it comes at a high cost. Others are forced into low-paying and unsafe jobs that
harm their physical and mental health. In colleges, peer pressure and the
desire to fit in also push students toward these wrong paths. Some may start
gambling, stealing, or even working in illegal trades just to earn a little
money. Many students feel that they have no other option. Once they go down
this path, it becomes very hard to return. Their studies suffer, their grades
drop, and their future starts to fall apart.

"Times New Roman"">Some students never even get the chance to complete their
basic graduation because of financial problems. They may have excellent marks
and big dreams of becoming doctors, engineers, scientists, or teachers, but
their journey ends after school. Higher education is costly, and scholarships
are limited. Students from villages or small towns are the worst affected. They
either start working in small jobs or stay unemployed at home. This is a big
loss not only for the student but also for the country. India is full of
talented young people, but many are unable to reach their potential because of
poverty. If these students had financial support, they could become great
professionals and contribute to society.

"Times New Roman"">The financial struggle does not only affect a student’s
education but also their mental health. Constant stress about money makes
students feel depressed, anxious, and hopeless. They feel guilty for being a
burden on their family. Some students suffer in silence and do not talk about
their problems. Others become angry, frustrated, and may behave badly in
college. The lack of money also limits their social life. They avoid college
trips, group outings, and even birthday parties because they cannot afford to
spend. This makes them feel isolated and lonely. The pressure to do well in
studies while also worrying about money can become too much to handle.

mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"">How Society and Colleges Can Help "Times New Roman"">

mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"">To solve this problem, we need
support from society, colleges, and the government.

1. "Times New Roman"">Scholarships and Fee Waivers: "Times New Roman""> More scholarships should be made available for poor
   students. Colleges must create flexible payment systems, give discounts,
   and allow fee waivers for students in need.


2. "Times New Roman"">Part-Time Job Opportunities: "Times New Roman""> Colleges can tie up with local businesses to provide
   safe part-time jobs for students. This way, they can earn money without
   affecting their studies.


3. "Times New Roman"">Counseling Services:
   Mental health counseling and career guidance should be provided in
   colleges. Students need someone to talk to and help them make better
   choices.


4. "Times New Roman"">Awareness Campaigns:
   There should be campaigns to inform students about legal ways to earn
   money and about the dangers of taking the wrong path.


5. "Times New Roman"">Government Help:
   The government can introduce more schemes for higher education loans with
   low interest and easy repayment after employment.


6. "Times New Roman"">Alumni Support:
   Successful students who have graduated can sponsor or mentor poor
   students. This can create a strong bond and bring hope to struggling
   students.

mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman""> 

"Times New Roman"">Education is a basic right, and no student should be forced
to give up their dreams because of money. It is the duty of society, colleges,
and the government to support students who are struggling financially. By
providing them with the right guidance, financial aid, and emotional support,
we can help them stay on the right path and build a better future. Young minds
are the strength of our country. If we lose them to poverty, we lose the bright
future of our nation. Let us work together to ensure that no student has to
choose between survival and education.