Higher education costs are rising!

The cost of higher education is escalating. This is causing many to question whether it is worthwhile to continue education beyond high school. Tuition costs are high, and choosing college over employment involves opportunity cost. In addition, students accumulate thousands of dollars of debt. Many wonder whether all these problems justify the investment. The risk is especially large for low-income families: they already have a difficult time making ends meet, and do not want the additional burden of college tuition and other fees.

Although pursuing a college degree costs a lot, there is evidence that the rate of return on investment is high enough to justify it. College graduates earn more than high school graduates. The differential varies over time, but it never disappears.

Shrek Forever After

Donkey was very sad about Shrek. He read the contract.
"Wait! We can stop the contract," Donkey shouted happily. "Kiss Fiona by twelve o'clock tonight. Then everything is the same as before."
"Donkey, you are a good friend!" said Shrek. "I must find Fiona quickly."

Rumpelstiltskin has tricked Shrek into giving up his present for his old life. He is now back in his past, and Fiona doesn't know him at all. Rumpelstiltskin will be able to take over the kingdom of Far Far Away for himself. But Donkey has a great idea. He suggests that Shrek can recreate the life that he had before if he meets Fiona and gives her True Love's Kiss. But Fiona doesn't know him at all. Will she want to kiss him?

Vocabulary

contract 契約

Reference

 Hughes, A. (2011). Shrek forever after (Popcorn ELT Readers, Level 3). London, UK: Scholastic.

Wordcount: 1068.