I visited a high school in Rotterdam last week to give a presentation about studying at TU/e. I was surprised to learn that the students unanimously agreed that the best thing to do was not to move into a student room, and that they should therefore opt for a university nearby. They focus on universities closest to where they live and choose a program at one of these institutions. Why? Simply because a different option would be too expensive.

This weekend TU/e organizes its open days, and I wonder: how many students from outside Brabant were among the attendees? Or is it true that ever since the introduction of the student loan system, high school students are afraid to direct their attention to universities far from home? Perhaps you’ve also noticed that money is becoming an increasingly important factor for your younger brother, sister, nephew or niece when deciding which study program to choose. Whereas what should matter most it that you choose a study program you like and feel passionate about, not the one that costs the least. The fear of a high study debt hinders students in the process of choosing a study program, which shouldn’t depend on how much money you can spend.

Eventually, you’ve decided on a study program where it is demanded that you develop yourself outside the classroom as well. Students who can distinguish themselves from their peers are in demand. Universities are increasingly beginning to see the importance of a student’s professional development, which entails more than just passing courses. But how do you accomplish this? By undertaking extracurricular activities. But do we have the money for this? No.

We’re increasingly starting to feel the pressure to complete our studies in the allotted time, so that we can limit our debts. The way in which we study is based on the idea that ‘nominal is normal.’ In the past, it was easier for students to undertake extracurricular activities and take a year out, or serve on a board for a year. But today, the focus is on preventing extension. Because one-year extension could easily lead to an extra study debt of tens of thousands of euros. ‘Does that still make it worthwhile?’, many students ask.

There’s not much that students can do to change this problem. It’s the government’s task to develop a better system. A few months ago, a majority in the House of Representatives voted in favor of reinstating the basic grant. There, too, they’ve come to realize that the student loan system doesn’t function as perfectly as we were led to believe. Other parties however, beginning with prime minister Mark Rutte, say that the system takes some time getting used to, and that we will have to wait and see a few more years.

It appears unlikely that we will return to the old system, but the current student loan system has to be replaced by a better one. It’s important that (future) students are able to give priority to their personal development when deciding on a study program. I hope everyone is aware of this, and that money no longer has to play a decisive role in the pursuit of your ambitions.