The Evolution of College Affordability: A Look Back at the 1970s

In a recent tweet, Liz Harvey shared a compelling story about a "boomie" — a baby boomer — who managed to fund an entire year at the University of Michigan by working just three months each summer in factories during the early 1970s. This anecdote sparked a conversation about the substantial changes in college affordability over the decades.

The Context of College Costs in the 1970s

During the early 1970s, college tuition rates were significantly lower than they are today. The average cost of attending a public university was around $1,500 per year, which included tuition, fees, and living expenses. For many students, a summer job could cover these costs entirely, making higher education accessible to a larger demographic.

The baby boomer generation, born between 1946 and 1964, often benefited from economic conditions that allowed for stable, well-paying jobs that required minimal qualifications. The manufacturing sector was thriving, and seasonal factory work provided ample opportunities for young adults to earn a living wage during their summer breaks.

Contrasting Past and Present: The Reality of Today’s Costs

Today, the situation has changed dramatically. The average annual tuition for public universities has skyrocketed, with costs exceeding $10,000 per year, and private institutions charging even higher rates. This increase in tuition, coupled with rising living expenses, has created a financial landscape where many students graduate with substantial debt.

In contrast to the past, today’s students often need to rely on financial aid, scholarships, and loans to afford their education. The narrative that one could work a summer job to completely fund a year’s worth of college is increasingly unrealistic.

The Impact of Inflation and Economic Changes

Inflation plays a significant role in the rising costs of education. Over the past few decades, the price of college has outpaced the rate of inflation, leading to a widening gap between wages and educational expenses. The median household income has not kept pace with the rising cost of living and education, making it increasingly difficult for families to afford college without incurring debt.

Moreover, the job market has evolved. Many of the manufacturing jobs that once provided summer employment for students have diminished due to globalization and technological advancements. Consequently, students today may find themselves competing for part-time positions in service industries that typically pay lower wages than factory jobs did in the past.

The Role of Student Debt

The student debt crisis has become a pressing issue in the United States, with millions of graduates carrying an average debt load of over $30,000. This burden can hinder graduates’ ability to buy homes, start businesses, or save for retirement. The stark difference between the financial realities of past generations and those of today’s students is a growing concern among policymakers, educators, and families.

The Need for Policy Change

In light of these challenges, there is an urgent need for policy changes to address the affordability of higher education. Proposed solutions include increasing funding for public universities, expanding access to scholarships and grants, and implementing measures to control tuition hikes.

Furthermore, there is a growing conversation around the importance of vocational training and alternative pathways to career success that do not require a four-year degree. By diversifying the education system, we can create a more equitable and accessible environment for all students.

A Call to Action

As we reflect on the past, it’s essential to advocate for changes that will help restore the promise of affordable education. The story shared by Liz Harvey serves as a reminder of how drastically the landscape of higher education has transformed.

We must work together to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to pursue their educational goals without the burden of excessive debt. By addressing the root causes of rising tuition costs and advocating for accessible education, we can create a brighter future for all students.

Conclusion

The tweet by Liz Harvey encapsulates a significant shift in the narrative surrounding college affordability. While one student’s experience in the 1970s may have been representative of a time when education was more accessible, today’s reality presents a formidable challenge.

Through understanding the historical context of college costs and advocating for meaningful change, we can strive to create an educational environment that is equitable, sustainable, and accessible for all students. It is essential to recognize the importance of this issue as we move forward in the quest for affordable higher education. The need for reform has never been more pressing, and it is a conversation that must continue in order to shape a better future for aspiring students.

A boomie i know worked in factories seasonally in the early 70s. worked 3 months a summer. And paid for his ENTIRE year including housing of UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN. ill save you the research. Its not possible. https://t.co/jWmBswKoj5

— Liz Harvey (@_lizharvey) May 12, 2025

A boomie I know worked in factories seasonally in the early 70s.

Let’s dive into a fascinating piece of nostalgia from the early 1970s, shall we? Picture this: a young worker, often referred to as a ‘boomie,’ spending three months every summer working in factories. It’s hard to believe, but this individual claimed he managed to pay for his entire year of education, including housing, at the prestigious University of Michigan. You might be thinking, “Wait, how is that even possible?” Well, let’s break it down.

Worked 3 months a summer.

Back in the 70s, the labor landscape looked vastly different from what we know today. Many students worked summer jobs to fund their education, and factory jobs were plentiful. A boomie I know managed to snag one of those seasonal jobs, which typically lasted three months during the summer. Factories were booming, and with the right skills, young people could earn a decent wage. But how much could three months of work really cover?

And paid for his ENTIRE year including housing of UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN.

Now, let’s talk numbers. Tuition costs at the University of Michigan back then were significantly lower than today’s rates. In fact, in the early 70s, the annual tuition was around $1,200 to $1,500, which sounds like a steal compared to today’s prices. Rent wasn’t exorbitantly high either, especially for students. In those days, students could find affordable housing options, allowing them to live reasonably well without breaking the bank.

However, even with these lower costs, the claim that someone could work just three months a year and pay for everything seems a bit too good to be true, right? It raises the question: did our boomie friend have some secret tricks up his sleeve? Perhaps he benefited from scholarships, grants, or even a part-time gig during the school year. The reality is that many students back then had to juggle multiple jobs to make ends meet. It wasn’t uncommon to hear of students working behind the counter at a coffee shop or tutoring peers to supplement their incomes.

I’ll save you the research.

Before we go down a rabbit hole of speculation, let’s cut to the chase. The assertion that one could pay for an entire year at the University of Michigan with just three months of factory work is a bit of a stretch. The economics of education have changed dramatically over the decades, and while it was possible for some to manage their finances effectively back then, it’s essential to consider the larger context.

Today, many students are burdened with significant student loan debt, and the notion of working a seasonal job to cover tuition feels like a distant memory. According to the College Board, average annual tuition and fees at public four-year institutions have skyrocketed, making it nearly impossible for students to rely solely on summer jobs to fund their education. The reality of student debt is a pressing issue that affects millions of students across the nation.

It’s not possible.

When we think about the current job market and economic conditions, it’s clear that the same opportunities aren’t available today. Inflation, rising costs of living, and the overall increase in tuition fees create an environment where many students find it challenging to make ends meet. The economic landscape has shifted, and what was once feasible is now a daunting task for many.

So, what does this all mean for today’s students? It’s crucial to explore a variety of options when seeking financial support for education. Scholarships, grants, and work-study programs are essential resources that can alleviate some of the financial burdens. Additionally, community colleges and online courses provide affordable alternatives for those looking to further their education without incurring massive debt.

Reflecting on the Past: A Different Era

Reflecting on stories like that of our boomie friend provides valuable insights into the shifting realities of higher education. While it’s tempting to romanticize the past and think of a time when education was more accessible, it’s important to acknowledge that every generation faces its unique challenges. The landscape of education continues to evolve, and students today navigate a more complex financial terrain.

Finding Solutions in Today’s Landscape

As we grapple with the realities of student debt and rising tuition costs, it’s essential to foster discussions around education financing. Institutions, policymakers, and communities must work together to create sustainable solutions that ensure higher education remains accessible for all. Whether it’s through increased funding for scholarships or innovative programs that reduce costs, the goal should be to support students in their academic pursuits without crippling them financially.

A Call to Action for Future Generations

So, what can we take away from this narrative? It’s a reminder that while times may change, the pursuit of education remains a noble and necessary endeavor. Future generations must be equipped with the tools and resources to navigate their educational journeys. Parents, educators, and communities should come together to support students, providing guidance on financial literacy and access to resources.

In the end, the story of that boomie serves as both a nostalgic reflection of the past and a cautionary tale for the future. As we move forward, let’s strive to create an educational environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their financial background. After all, education is a right, not a privilege.