Raising the standard of living was a problem statement straight from the effects of the Great Depression.  The term “standard of living” had to be defined in terms of its application to all people and its dependency or non-dependency upon material wealth.  At the very core of the problem definition was having food to eat, a place to live, and clothes on the back.  The meaning was determined, then the vital problems centered on the questions of how does one raise his own standard of living and how can he assist others to raise their standards of living as a teacher/leader in a social community.  By exposing New College students to rural, urban and foreign life experiences they would understand that standards of living are not universal.  They are determined by the individual’s attitude toward life and his ability to use his own resources and those within his society.