Affording books was one of the most stressful parts of college.

Even with the funds I received from my college access program and earnings from my part-time job, it was still not enough. When I first received my financial aid offer, my family and I were ecstatic. I got a “full ride” and we thought all costs would be taken care of. This turned to anxiety when we learned I still had to purchase course materials, which cost $481 for my first semester. Course materials are essential to class participation and learning, and thus should be covered by financial aid. At the very least, professors should be able to share them with students at no additional cost. I’m asking that course materials be open access so that all students, regardless of their ability to pay, can succeed in college.