IUPUI gives students graduation countdown clocks

INDIANAPOLIS — The clock is ticking at Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis. Make that clocks.

IUPUI has given about 700 freshmen credit-card-sized clocks that count down the days and hours until their graduation. College officials say the clocks put the goal of on-time graduation in front of students every day.

Only three of 10 freshmen at Indiana public universities graduate within four years. Taking longer can add thousands of dollars to a student's education debt.

IUPUI freshmen Steven Junkersfeld wore his clock around his neck recently, saying it's a reminder that he can't waste time.

But the clocks aren't a meaningful symbol for everyone. Other students said they keep theirs in a drawer or have already thrown them away.