This student story is one of five winners of the Summer Writing Awards as part of the 2026 NASW Perlman Virtual Mentoring Program organized by the NASW Education Committee, providing science journalism experience for undergraduate and graduate students.
Story by Kaan Ozcan Mentored and edited by Amy Nordrum
This article is currently being pitched to news outlets. Check back here for updates.
Main image caption: The Department of Education is attempting to slash the costs of higher education by implementing loan caps; whether schools will lower their tuition remains to be seen. Credit: Getty Images.
Kaan Ozcan is an early-career science journalist interested in the intersections of science, policy and culture. A recent graduate from Stony Brook University, Kaan has authored stories for outlets like NBC, CNN, The Stony Brook Press and more.
