College Choice and College Transitions of Underrepresented Students
As high school students from historically underserved populations consider what college or university to enroll in, a variety of factors come into play. For many, the financial burden of attending college is a primary concern, and they may seek out institutions that offer generous financial aid packages to help offset the costs of tuition, room, and board.
Additionally, these students may be looking for a campus culture that is welcoming and supportive of diversity, as they may have faced challenges related to their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status in the past. Institutions that prioritize inclusivity and provide robust support services for underrepresented students are, therefore, likely to be attractive.
However, many high-achieving, low-income students may also face pressure from their peers and families to stay close to home or pursue more traditional career paths. In some cases, parents may discourage their children from choosing an institution that is hundreds of miles away out of concern for their safety or because they wish to keep the family close together.
To address these challenges, institutions and student-focused organizations can take several steps to better meet the needs of underserved populations.
Institutional Influences on Student Decision-Making
While an institution's reputation holds significant influence over student choice for higher education, other forces affect their decision-making, including:
COLLEGE COST
The ever-rising cost of tuition has students carefully evaluating the overall price and the value of their limited budget and financial aid dollars.
PROGRAM AVAILABILITY
Colleges are learning that offering a wide variety of degree majors allows students to explore and choose an ideal field for their needs and interests. A broad spectrum of program offerings also has the potential to minimize costly transferring as well as flexibility in choosing career paths.
LOCATION
The community and geographic location of a college can have a significant impact on the program choice. Factors like cultural experiences, financing, and family relationships affect student decisions for higher education.
FACILITIES
Studies have found that college facilities, for example, campus art museums, theaters, and gyms, made available for students profoundly influence their overall perception of the higher education experience and their actual engagement, learning, health, and achievement growth.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
Colleges look at more than a prospective student's GPA or placement testing scoring. Some now look for learners with more substantial high school involvement that underserved communities may not offer their students.
SOCIAL CLIMATE AND ACTIVITIES
Institutions offering cultural diversity and celebration in their social structure and campus activities create a feeling of inclusion for students.
Family, Peer, and Mentor Influences on Student Decision-Making
Faced with the tough decision and ongoing commitment to choosing a college, students also must balance pressure and seek advice from those closest to them, such as:
THE ADVICE OF PARENTS AND RELATIVES
First-generation college students and those who are part of the high-achieving, low-income (HALI) student population often listen to their parents' advice (which sometimes is very shortsighted if they do not have college experience themselves).
ADVICE FROM ALUMNI
Students listen to alumni's experiences at prospective colleges when making a decision. This insight gathering may include advice from a sibling or mentor.
HIGH SCHOOL PEERS
Studies have shown that high school peers have a long-term influence on post-secondary education decisions and actions.
MARKETING
College advertising and direct marketing aim toward students who advertise financial aid and career counseling, and other benefits make a difference.
FAMILY NEEDS AND EXPECTATIONS
With thousands of dollars on the line (or lack thereof) in the college decisions they make, students consider the impact of their families' costs. Additionally, first-generation and HALI students self-impose a higher expectation of academic success as they perceive that it represents more than just their personal goals and those of their families.
Perceived Preparation Influences on Student Decision-Making
Learners frequently make school enrollment decisions based on their perceptions of what their student and campus experiences will be like, including any preparations they need to make before committing to attending.
PERCEPTION AND ACTUAL AVAILABILITY OF FINANCIAL AID
Colleges that offer a broader selection of grants and loans and more extensive work-study opportunities give prospective students more security knowing there is financial aid readily available.
ACADEMIC PREPARATION
Institutions and post-secondary programs may require rigorous coursework to earn grades high enough to meet entrance requirements involving GPA or specific prerequisite study.
The Importance of College Transitions
College access is often seen as the ultimate goal for students, but it's just the beginning of their journey. The transition to higher education is a critical step that can impact a student's success throughout their academic career. While students have a role to play in their own transitions, college and university leaders must also take an active role in creating successful outcomes.
The student experience begins from the moment they decide to pursue higher education. Factors such as college readiness, access to academic resources, and financial aid can all influence a student's decision to pursue or not to pursue college. Without a strong foundation of support, students may face challenges when transitioning to higher education that can negatively impact their success.
College and university leaders must recognize their role in creating successful outcomes. This starts with a commitment to providing students with the resources they need to succeed. From orientation programs to academic advising, colleges and universities have a responsibility to support their students through the transition to higher education.
By creating a culture of support, college and university leaders can help students overcome the challenges that come with transitioning to higher education. This includes providing access to academic resources, offering financial assistance, and providing guidance on how to navigate the higher education system.
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