CARBONDALE, Ill. — The early morning rain didn't keep some protestors from voicing their loud and public opinion against Southern Illinois University Carbondale's current student health care plan.

Kristi Brownfield joined the protest and believes everyone is entitled to good health care but said she's not getting it.

"Right now, grad assistants and students more generally do not," Brownfield said.

Every SIUC student is eligible to enroll in the university's plan and may opt out, but the medical coverage provided doesn't include coverage for dependents, dental or vision care or for pre-natal or pediatric care.

Brownfield said there is also out-of-pocket expenses of up to a $1,000 if a grad assistant went to the emergency room, money she said most assistants don't have.

"Nobody should have to choose between being healthy and eating and paying your rent," Brownfield said.

Namdar Mogharreban said he's seen the financial strain it can have on students. He said in some cases, foreign students often leave their jobs and head home because the cost of treatment is cheaper.

"Students have to leave in the middle of the semester for various medical emergencies and go back home because they can't afford the costs that they incur here," Mogharreban said.

Brownfield hopes the administration changes its policy and said she won't back down.

"All of us are standing together to fight for better health care," Brownfield said with a smile.