Life Confidence: More Than Measurable Outcomes of Early Entrance to College Programs

• In Event: 61.082 - Outcomes of Acceleration

Abstract

Researchers report the impact of two early entrance programs to college on outcomes typically used to determine success of university graduates including employment, income, and degree attainment. Alumni (N = 192, 32.7% response rate) responded to questions related to program impact through an 81 item, mixed methods, online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics revealed that the majority of respondents achieved at high levels, earned an above average income, were satisfied with their choice of going to college early, and were generally happy. More variance was reported for social relationships. Thirty-five follow up audio-taped semi-structured interviews revealed more than success in numbers. One alum stated, “The accomplishment of making it through the Transition School gave me life confidence.” Implications are discussed.

Authors

• Nancy B. Hertzog, University of Washington

• Rachel U Mun, University of Connecticut - Storrs