Computer lab fee considered for NV college students

Sunday, Sept. 19, 1999 | 2:33 a.m.

But a number of students are criticizing the proposed surcharge as too much of a burden in the face of the other costs of tuition, books and existing student fees.

"I have friends who are working 40 hours per week to support themselves now," said University of Nevada, Reno sophomore David Boyer. "If they increase costs, (my friends) will have to work even harder -- it's going to hurt them even more."

The fee would be assessed to all students statewide. Each school would spend revenues it generated.

The fee would generate an estimated $1 million per year at the University of Nevada, Reno. It would be used to maintain student computer labs, buy new equipment and software.

Students carrying an average 12-credit load would pay an additional $48 per semester.

UNR Vice President of Student Services Shannon Ellis said the cost is modest compared to fees charged at other colleges and universities.

"Students are paying minimal to pretty hefty fees to support technology," Ellis said.

But Kathleen Mayfield, 18, a freshman from Sparks, said she barely had enough money to pay $1,200 for tuition and $400 for books.

"If it's going toward new equipment, it might be good," she said. "But for someone like me, who doesn't have much money, it's not such a good deal."

Regents are expected to vote on the fee in October.