How Growing Skepticism of College Is Making Students Savvier Edu Shoppers (Doubting College, Ep. 2)
Feb 20, 2024
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Students at Central High School are rethinking college choices. They explore alternatives like gap years and two-year schools. Atticus James embraces journalism passion, shifting from trade school plans. Jamal balances coding and music interests in college search. Discussion on trade professions and individual student needs in education choices.
Students are advised to consider factors like college size, location, and desired programs when selecting colleges.
More students are exploring gap years, community colleges, and vocational programs as alternatives to traditional four-year colleges due to rising costs and desire for career clarity.
Deep dives
Finding the right fit and match for college applications
At Central High School in St. Paul, Minnesota, students are encouraged to find colleges that are the right fit and match for their academic interests. The career and college readiness coordinator, Tori Park, advises students to consider factors like college size, location, and desired programs when deciding where to apply. She suggests applying to about seven schools to create a range of target, safety, and reach options. While some students are concerned about the high cost of college, others question the necessity of higher education in achieving their desired careers.
The changing perspective on college choices
College-bound high school students are approaching their choices differently compared to previous generations. Instead of blindly enrolling in four-year colleges without a clear plan, more students want to have a game plan and purpose before starting college. This change can be attributed to factors like increasing college costs and the desire for career clarity. Some students are considering gap years or attending community colleges to explore their interests and save money before transferring to four-year institutions.
Navigating the financial aspect of college
The rising cost of college is a major concern for students and their families. Many students, like Jamal Williams, are aware of the potential financial burden and question the value of investing four years and resources into higher education. Financial considerations, such as tuition, room, and board, as well as costs beyond college, like cell phone bills and living expenses, play a significant role in students' decision-making process. Financial aid and scholarships are crucial for students from low-income backgrounds, and the availability of such support influences their college choices.
Exploring alternative pathways to college
While the majority of students still plan to attend college, there is a growing understanding that other pathways can lead to successful careers. Trade schools and vocational programs are attractive options for students interested in gaining practical skills without the cost and time commitment of a traditional four-year college. Programs like PSEO (Post-Secondary Enrollment Options) allow high school students to take college classes and earn credits, giving them a head start and a taste of college experience. Community colleges are also becoming more popular as a cost-effective way to obtain a degree before transferring to a four-year institution.
In part two of our podcast series Doubting College, which explores the growing skepticism of higher ed, we talk to students and counselors at a public high school about how students are thinking through their choices after graduation.
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