Year-End Reflections: Is College Still Worth It?

In our final newsletter of the year, we reflect on grief, gratitude, and why helping students secure college admission with full funding matters now more than ever.

Why access, affordability, and full funding must be part of the conversation

December 23, 2025

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As we arrive at almost the end of December—and the close of another year—I want to pause and acknowledge something important.

We made it.

And yet, even as we give thanks for life, this season has been marked by senseless bloodshed and profound loss—in Rhode Island, in California, in Australia, and amid ongoing conflicts around the world. My heart grieves with all who are grieving. I pray for comfort, strength, and peace for the families and communities affected during this incredibly difficult time.

As this is our final newsletter of the year, I want to offer some food for thought on a debate that continues to surface in the public conversation: Is college still worth it?

For the vast majority of people, the answer is still yes.

The data is clear—college graduates, on average, earn significantly more over a lifetime than those without a college degree. Education remains one of the most reliable pathways to economic mobility and long-term opportunity.

However—and this matters deeply—the cost of college has become prohibitive for most families. For many, it is now virtually impossible to afford college without taking on loans. This reality cannot be ignored.

Beginning in January, I will be unpacking this issue more deeply in upcoming editions of this newsletter—why college costs have spiraled, who is most affected, and what families can realistically do about it. Equally important to discuss is who is pushing this narrative that college is not worth it and to what end?

This system is clearly unsustainable.

And that is exactly why CFF College Fully Funded® exists.

CFF College Fully Funded® was created to help students from families who cannot afford to pay for college out of pocket find, apply to, and secure admission to colleges with full funding—so that debt does not become the price of opportunity.

If you have a prospective college student who is currently a high school junior, or a prospective transfer student, I invite you to have a conversation with us about how we can help your student. And if you know a family who fits this description, please consider forwarding them this email.

As we close out the year, my wish for you is simple and sincere: peace, love, rest, and renewal during this holiday season—and a hopeful, healthy, and fulfilling 2026.

Thank you for being part of the CFF community.

With gratitude,

Dr. Faith Okpotor Founder and CFF Head Coach National Center for Higher Education Access Award-winning academic and tenured professor

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