How Hunger and Homelessness Affect Community College Students' Academic Achievement and Attainment

• In Event: Considering the Complex Identities of Our Student Populations

Abstract

Prior research demonstrates that college prices have risen substantially and credential attainment rates remain low among low-income students, but the material experiences of students is often overlooked. I use data from a national study of community college students to examine the relationships between food and/or housing insecurity and college achievement and attainment. Findings indicate that both food and housing insecurity are independently associated with poorer achievement while housing insecurity is also associated with poorer attainment. After adjusting for prior background factors—including income and academic preparation—homelessness is associated with an 8-percentage-point reduction in the probability of later credential attainment or enrollment. Efforts to promote college attainment should be expanded to include consideration of students’ living conditions.

Author

• Katharine Broton, University of Iowa