International conflict between the United States and Iran has resurfaced, directly affecting global economies and inflating energy markets. As a result, gas prices have increased, affecting drivers across the country, including high school students.
“As of now, [the situation] is simply like supply and demand that was taught in economics class,” government teacher Michael Mosley said. “The supply of oil is down, while the demand continues. This causes the cost of gas to increase.”
The rise of fuel and oil costs links to global and domestic factors. While global oil supply continues to fluctuate, oil producing and output can ultimately reduce the supply of oil. When supply decreases while the demand for oil increases, the price of oil rises.
“There has also been strategic striking of oil and natural gas rigs and refineries from both sides, which hurts the production of oil and gas. Iran uses this control of oil as its main strategy for bargaining and maintaining some leverage in the war,” Mosley said.
For student drivers, the effects are almost instantaneous. Many students who commute to school must now spend more money on gas. Those with part-time jobs and extracurricular activities may find it difficult to plan their earnings toward fuel.
“My drive is probably longer than the majority since I live about 38 minutes away from the school. I paid $55 to $60 for a full tank, and now I pay around $70,” senior Baron Rand said.
Increased gas prices can also influence how often or how far students drive. Some may begin to carpool with friends, or limit their social outings.
“I now try to combine trips, such as running errands on my way home from school. I also try to carpool with my friends whenever possible, which helps split the cost,” junior Hailey Macgregor said.
As energy markets and global oil supply continue to vary and directly influence daily life, student drivers and their families learn to adapt to the change of cost.
“I live far away from the school, so I stay within the area if I know I have soccer practice or a game later in the afternoon. By doing so, I am able to cut back on the amount of gas used to go to and from school,” Hailey said.
