Many people feel that college education is not worth the cost, but data shows that college education is more valuable than ever. The dissonance between perception and reality in higher education reflects wider economic issues and may have contributed to Democratic losses with working-class voters. People without a college degree were more likely to support President-elect Donald Trump in 2020, indicating a shift from previous elections.
The gender and education divide in the electorate mirrors college enrollments, with fewer men attending four-year campuses in recent years. White men without college degrees were among Trump’s strongest supporters. Higher education has become increasingly important in insulating individuals from economic challenges like recessions and inflation. College graduates earn significantly more than those with only a high school diploma, creating a widening wage gap.
Improving college affordability may not have wide-reaching effects due to various economic pressures faced by lower-income households. The cost of college expenses remains a burden for many students, leading to challenges in balancing work and school. Polling data from states like New Jersey, where Democrats faced unexpected challenges, suggests that difficulty affording education is a widespread concern.
Tuition costs have risen at public and private colleges, but many students are unaware of the financial aid options available to them. Despite the perception of high tuition costs, the actual amount students pay is often significantly lower. The lack of awareness of financial aid opportunities may contribute to the continued perception of college affordability as a major issue for many Americans.
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