The Governor’s office says approximately four million adults in the state lack college degrees or other accredited certificates to help them land high paying jobs. Kathy Hochul was in Syracuse recently at Onondaga Community College to unveil her “Free Community College” proposal to get them prepared. She said people often need to attend college later in life.
“Somebody wasn’t going to go to college and now seem they’re being left behind... they’re never going to be able to get that apartment, much less a house. Someone who’s 45 or 50 who’s thinking this is not the skills I want to have. I want to change my career... or the job I had went away somewhere else,” said.
Hochul’s free tuition plan at state affiliated community colleges for adult learners between the ages of 25 to 55 also picks-up the tab for student fees, books, and any supplies.
SUNY Chancellor John King said people who don’t further their education after high school typically earn around $42,000 at the high end. "Starting salary for a registered nurse in many parts of the state, over $70,000 dollars. Think about the difference for a family that getting that community college degree is going to add.”
OCC Student Josh Barr is a non-traditional adult-learner. At 41 years-old, he's getting his career aspirations on course as he also continues his sobriety and recovery from heroin addiction. “I have many goals, some are short term, some are long term. They include sobriety, being the best father I can be, completing my degree here at OCC… going to work and eventually my bachelor’s degree and one day starting my own cybersecurity business.”
Barr wishes the Governor’s proposal was available to assist him financially. Meanwhile, the Governor is asking for broad support of her “Free Community College” idea in her Executive Budget Proposal. She says it would support those with career interests in nursing, teaching, technology and engineering. The State Budget deadline is April first.