AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE, we’re getting a 12% tuition increase. We used to be a big bargain. Now, not so much. Some question the necessity. However, it’s not “tax dollars” — much of the tuition increase is to make up for reduced state support. The state apparently feels that higher education should be paid for by students, not taxpayers. That’s not necessarily bad — its taking education out of the “other people’s money” category — but it does mean that students, since they’re footing the bill (often with borrowed money) need to be sure that they’re getting their money’s worth.