John Marcus, a senior higher education reporter at the Hechinger Report, and Catherine Bond-Hill, an economist and former president of Vassar College, dive into the pressing college affordability crisis. They discuss the largest graduating class set for 2025 amidst declining enrollment due to lower birth rates. The duo emphasizes the financial strains on families, particularly rising housing costs exceeding tuition fees. They also explore innovative solutions like community college pathways to help alleviate the burden and ensure accessible education for future students.