By Steven M. Jacobson

Area community college students are re-evaluating their decision to transfer to Buffalo State College due to increased tuition and the cut of tuition aid programs by Gov. Pataki.

Community college students are not sure if they will be able to afford to go to a SUNY school. Many of community college students are already struggling with their current tuition costs.

“I don’t qualify for financial aid because my parents make too much money,” says Niagara County Community College student Michael DeMart, “and most times I’m paying for school myself.”

When transfer students are asked what their future college plans are, most seem to be uncertain and quite concerned.

“I might have to look into going to school somewhere else, or even go part time,” says DeMart.

Pataki also wants to cut back on tuition aid programs that raise new concerns for other students who receive financial aid on their tuition.

“I no longer receive TAP (Tuition Assistance Program),” says Erie Community College Student Jason Harbison, “I may have to take out loans and school may be more difficult to pay for than I thought.”

Students are beginning to believe that if tuition continues to increase their money may be better off at a private school.

“Private schools get a better education for your dollar,” says Harbison, “They make you the first priority and don’t treat you like a number.”

Many students also feel that with Pataki’s budget cuts there would be a loss in their education in some form or another. These students believe that with decrease in school funding programs may be lost, teachers fired, and a lack of supplies. Some students still haven’t decided where they will attend college next semester.