The challenge of getting into and finishing a is easier in some ways than it ever has been. The options, first and foremost, are immense. There are state colleges, private universities, and community colleges. No matter what culture, realm of study, or general feeling one is looking for, it’s available. Colleges also have more resources than ever, with ever evolving educational fields and understandings of how to help students.
However, this isn’t to say that the college experience is easier than ever. Colleges are more expensive than they ever have been, they’re less valued, and often underfunded. This creates a world where enrollment rates are declining and the social value of college is dropping. Even for students that are already in college, finishing is quite the process.
This is where Kentucky comes into the equation. Kentucky is a state which has historically struggled with education rates. In response, the state has decided to set a goal of increasing their postsecondary credential rates. A goal which is much easier stated than accomplished. Kentucky’s plan for achieving this goal is complex, but three key avenues for improvement are as follows.
First, Kentucky aims to better meet its students’ basic needs. A majority of students have insecurities around things like housing, food, and insurance. Screening for these needs and expanding social programs is one way that Kentucky aims to help. This ensures that students in college don’t have to drop just to financially survive.
Another less obvious approach is improving . There are a thousand and one reasons someone can struggle with a specific college. Transferring is a great option to ensure academic success, but only if the process works well. Strong transfer pathways ensure that those who do transfer end up staying at their new institution.
Finally, gateway courses are another force which is essential to ensuring students make it to graduation. Intro and lower level courses which introduce students to academic subjects can make or break a college experience. The difference between students who pass and fail these gateway courses is massive in terms of retention.
And those are three of the major ways Kentucky aims to ensure students make their way through college. They’re simple in nature, but complex in execution. Not every person is going to want to attend college, but it’s important that those that do, can.
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