The costs of college keeps going up and one student at the University of Illinois, Springfield says it's not easy trying to make it.  Nekira Cooper says she gets financial aid, but even that isn't enough.  

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Cooper is a first generation college student who says she just wants a shot at a better future.  She wants state, local, and university officials to do their parts in keeping the costs of college affordable.  She joined Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon at a summit yesterday.  Simon says it's vital for Illinoisans to have access to higher education so they can compete on a global level.