Middle School Students' Expectations for College: Exploring the Disconnect Between Academic Achievement and College Aspirations

• In Event: 16.056 - Roundtable Session 4
  In Roundtable Session: 16.056-9 - Examining Factors That Impact Access to Higher Education for Middle School, High School, and the Transition to College

Abstract

Student aspirations and expectations for college and college enrollment are at an all-time high. These increases may be due to the nationwide push of college for all, even at the elementary and middle school levels. This study aims to better understand the relationship between middle school students’ college aspirations and expectations and their academic performance. Drawing on survey data, interviews, grades, and standardized test scores, our research aims to explore whether congruence exists between students’ academic performance and their college aspirations and expectations and whether that congruence varies based on students’ gender and race/ethnicity. Preliminary analyses reveal a mismatch between students’ college expectations and aspirations and their actual student performance.

Authors

• Kelsey Krausen, University of California - Davis

• Juliet Michelsen Wahleithner, California State University - Fresno

• Michal Kurlaender, University of California - Davis