Claudio Sanchez
Education Correspondent
National Public Radio
Claudio Sanchez follows campus topics and broadcasts to a national audience. Jeff wendt spoke with him an hour after they attended Secretary Duncan's February 17 press conference.
Based on Mr. Duncan's February 17 remarks, is SAFRA dead on arrival?
No. In fact, I hear that bankers and private lenders have very little overall credibility on Capitol Hill. Their lobby doesn't have its prior clout. And the administration isn't getting much resistance from legislators in the House and Senate. Both Secretary Duncan and Mr. Shireman believe the Senate votes will be there.
What do you hear among colleges and universities?
I'm not hearing any significant protests. Among the larger institutions, I hear no protests. I don't even hear complaints about the lateness of the hour.
What are you reporting nationally about medical school loans?
Many medical students are borrowing as much as $70,000 per year, the entire tuition, fees, room and board. The present level of GradPLUS interest rates will have them repaying for a lifetime, perhaps even if the income limitation is enacted. I hear little or no interest in Congress to lower student loan interest rates. The administration's priority seems to be where to spend the interest 'savings.' Pell grants and early childhood education are prime targets, for example.
Can you see a connection between medical school financing and the apparent reduction in numbers of American doctors?
I believe there is a connection. How much so I don't know. I spoke with many students who said they couldn't afford the high prices at American medical schools and subsequently attended abroad. Certainly there must be a link.
What are you hearing about undergraduate college buying and shopping from NPR listeners?
We hear quite often from listeners on college-related topics. They are concerned that the admissions and financial aid playing field isn't level.
Do you see evidence of a movement toward 'consumer-izing' the higher education purchase?
It's been here, but it's somewhat weak. Parents are still very much in the dark about how it all works. It's a complicated business, and there are few sources of real help. Even medical students at Boston University told me "Our generation is pretty much asleep about this."