College Ready

Sharing strategies for student success, college readiness and academic coaching

Tag Archives: economy


by 2 Comments

Students “Just Say No” to America’s Top Colleges. Here’s Why

The quick answer: it’s about the ROI. At least according to this article in The Week, which is trending at the moment.

college[1]

So, it seems the trend continues. Students and parents are spending more time digging around the financials and thinking ROI when it comes time to select a college. That’s a smart move in my opinion. Like the article points out, often it is more about the student’s major, than it is about the institution, when it comes time to getting a job and the salary that job pays.

A good rule of thumb: don’t acquire more college debt than a profession’s first year salary. College is still more than worth it when it comes to lifetime annual salary. A degree has also been an effective buffer during a weak economy. Those with degrees had roughly half of the level of unemployment than those with only a high school diploma.

So, yes. Think ROI. Plan, investigate, calculate. When it comes time to select a college, make sure those numbers add up.

Related articles


by Leave a comment

Location Matters: Climbing the Income Equality Ladder

This graphic that appeared in the New York Times explains part of the reason why I’ve started this blog, College Ready. Location is a key factor on whether or not children are able to climb the income ladder. Upward mobility varied greatly in cities that have the same or comparable average incomes.

I’m committed to closing the Opportunity Divide, so that every student who can succeed in college, gets that chance to actually get to college. We can’t afford to let geography alone be a barrier to education, employment, equality or economic stability.

Mentors and coaches, peers, and other role models can help. As I’ve said before, the presence of just one adult in a child’s life who believes in him or her, and shows up, makes a difference. There’s not an easy answer but taking one small action can start a ripple effect. I challenge you to spend an hour a week reading to a child-even if it is your own child-and start that ripple.

What are some of your best ideas for helping everyone have a chance at the American Dream?