More than half of Baruch College students live below the poverty line in New York City, yet the college still requires graduating seniors to purchase a graduation cap and gown. To attend the ceremony students are required to purchase a cap and gown for at least $126, plus shipping. 

In a 2024 Economic Mobility Update, Baruch found that 57% of students live with an income of under $40,000 and 37% are first-generation college students. 

The school must offer discounts or cheaper options for students who are struggling financially. 

In comparison, the Borough of Manhattan Community College offers free caps and gowns to its graduates. Baruch has offered no explanation as to why this method cannot be implemented at Baruch too.

Baruch students who order their cap and gown first have the advantage of receiving more tickets, meaning more family members can attend the ceremony. 

This indirectly harms those who must wait and save before buying their cap and gown when inviting family.  

Although Baruch was considered the best value college by The Wall Street Journal, the school does little outside the classroom to celebrate student achievements. 

Many students either work full-time or are coming back to school after a long break, making a graduation ceremony extra special. 

With high costs and no special moment of walking across the stage at graduation, Baruch is not meeting students’ needs. 

If Baruch truly prides itself on helping underserved communities, the school should continue those efforts when students reach milestone accomplishments.