About Venkates "Swami" Swaminathan
Making Sense of College—Together
Higher education is being reshaped by shifting demographics, soaring costs, political battles, and government policies that often seem designed to make things harder for students and families. The result? A confusing, high-stakes landscape that’s tough to navigate alone.
That’s where this newsletter comes in.
I unpack the myths, mechanics, and madness of college admissions, financial aid, academic programs, and the real cost and value of a degree. I also explore how public policy and political decisions are reshaping what higher education looks like, who it serves, and what it's worth in the long run.