Postsecondary Education Enrollment and Completion Status Among Rural College- and Work-Bound Youth: A Follow-Up Investigation From the Rural High School Aspirations Study

• In Event: 16.057 - Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: 16.057-20 - Aspirations and Transitions Among Rural Youth

Abstract

Postsecondary education (PSE) is important in the transition to adulthood, yet nearly 50% of youth do not attain PSE. Rural youth, in particular, may experience contextual challenges that limit PSE attainment. We report on findings from a recent follow-up study of students who took part in the Rural High School Aspirations Study. In the original study students were identified as college- and work-bound based on their high school PSE and occupational expectations. In this follow-up study we report on actual PSE enrollment and completion. Results indicate that few work-bound youth in the original study undertook or completed PSE and that PSE status was related to prior educational and occupational expectations as well other individual, family, school, and schooling experience factors.

Authors

• Bryan C. Hutchins, University of North Carolina - Greensboro

• Judith L. Meece, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

• Thomas W. Farmer, Virginia Commonwealth University

• Matthew J. Irvin, University of South Carolina