[BarTopDancer]

California colleges are subsidized by the state for residents. When Davis cut the budget for the community college system tuition went up. Yes, it was still cheaper than a 4-year school but tuition still jumped 50%. When Schwarzenegger funded the schools again tuition dropped. Other states have "pre-pay" programs where you can pay current rates for tuition when a child is born.

Many financial aid programs are available besides loans. I have an issue attaching required community service on student loans, since they have to be repaid. I don't have an issue attaching community service requirements to Pell or other grants. However, these grants have to be repaid if the student doesn't complete the semester.

After my really long experience, and subsequent intimate knowledge of financial aid systems, the entire program needs to be redone.