by Emily Hussey
opinions editor
Welcome to Ask Emily, where I give my opinions on anything you want to hear. This week I discuss how Millsaps increases its tuition yearly, animals and ghosts. Have a question for me that you want to see answered in a future edition of the P&W? You can submit your questions here: www.emilyopinions.tumblr.com/ask. Happy asking!
Q: What steps do you think Millsaps could take to have better transparency about scholarships and financial aid over the course of your four years here? I know for me, I was not aware that there would be an increase in tuition EVERY YEAR.
A: This is a tricky question. Personally, I knew that Millsaps increased its tuition every year before I came here. Granted: I have attended private school all my life, so I had experience with tuition prior to college. Although a “lock-in” tuition would be nice, I do not think it is feasible. So, to answer your question: I really think that transparency is key here. When discussing the price of Millsaps, the Admissions office should be completely open about the fact that tuition increases annually, and explain why in addition to giving examples of where the additional money goes. This is crucial. Since Millsaps is such an expensive school, even just a little bit of an increase could prevent someone from continuing her or his education here. I think the admissions office needs to convey the expected increase to all prospective students and their parents – either verbally or through written communication – so that they can factor the yearly tuition increase in before deciding on their college.
Q: What are your personal thoughts on purebred dogs?
A: I love all dogs. However, I would prefer a mutt from the pound over a purebred from a puppy farm (for both ethical and financial reasons).
Q: If you could be any marine animal, what would be?
A: I would be a dolphin, because dolphins are smart and happy. Also, they get excited when they see themselves in the mirror. (Google it.)
Q: Who are you endorsing for the presidential election of 2016?
A: I am not endorsing anyone at this stage in the process. Check back with me after the primaries (and also when Trump is out of the picture).
Q: Do you believe in ghosts?
A: To an extent. As far as haunted house stuff goes, probably not. But I have to believe that there is a life after death, and that our loved ones who have passed are still with us in some way.