Exploring College Enrollment Declines: High School Perspectives vs. Non-Enrollees' Insights

There has been an exodus from higher ed - that much is understood. But what's causing it and what can we do to ensure students are still accessing pathways to opportunity? In this episode, Jeff and Michael grapple with this question with the help of Terrell Dunn whose recent research, done in partnership with HCM Strategists and Edge Research, addresses this very topic. They discuss the increasing focus on job outcomes revealed in her findings and consider the role of colleges in supporting - or even ensuring - employment for their graduates. The conversation touches on the importance of providing students with exposure to diverse career paths and the potential benefits and challenges of integrating work experiences into the college curriculum. This episode is made with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

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Key Moments

00:00 The Decline in College Enrollment

03:13 The Importance of Job Guarantee and Economic Security

05:13 The Value of Job Training and Professional Certificates

15:19 The Need for Colleges to Explain Their Value and Support Students

Links

HCM Strategists

Gates Foundation