Editorial: At Pitt, three years is one too few

Thinking about becoming a superhero is a popular way for many Western preteens to spend their… Thinking about becoming a superhero is a popular way for many Western preteens to spend their time. At Pitt, our popular pastime is becoming “super seniors.” Let’s face it, pursuing a five- or six-year academic plan is not uncommon here. Take note: There’s a good reason why students are adding years instead of subtracting them.

Chatham University recently launched a new three-year Bachelor program for students who are willing to take an increased course load in order to graduate early with a four-year degree, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. We hope this doesn’t start a trend.

Pretend for a second you’re on the three-year plan at Pitt.

Economically, you can’t imagine why your choice doesn’t make sense. Rising inflation, increasingly elusive loans and Pitt’s tuition increases bolster your confidence that making it to the job game before things get worse is the right thing to do. However, if you are a freshman or sophomore and your ears perk up at the idea, proceed with caution.

Intentionally enrolling in a three-year plan may leave out some crucial career-building opportunities.

If you choose fewer than four years of school, you close, at least partially, the window for resume-enhancing internships and co-ops — opportunities that your four-year counterparts will gladly take full advantage of. Be not illusioned: If college was too competitive for you, you might consider not leaving at all.

Don’t take our word for it,. See for yourself. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national unemployment rate is 9.7 percent. Given the surplus millions of qualified job-seekers out there, well-rounded resumes — and these days they’re looking for perfect spheres — are at a premium.

If you do graduate after three years with no job and no plans for graduate school, be prepared to face the harsh reality of monthly payments from your student loans.

The student aid website studentaid.ed.gov reports that Stafford Loans must be paid back beginning a mere six months after graduation, while Federal Perkins Loans start accruing interest after nine months.

Some schools, such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, have cracked down on students who try to double major and graduate early. While there is no formal policy at Pitt, it is virtually impossible for you to complete the requirements for many majors in three years without utilizing summer sessions. Pre-med? Think again.

Classes in the sciences for example, require students to take classes in succession and have strict prerequisites that dissuade people from taking both Chemistry 1 and 2 in the same semester.

If you’re graduating in three years, good luck. If any of these reasons dissuade you, well, we don’t blame you. The economy’s so bad, no one will land a job anyway.