Facing rising college costs, more Gen Z students like Penelope Masotti are choosing skilled trades for financial stability. Masotti plans to study cosmetology after graduation, joining a growing shift away from traditional four-year degrees.
Interest in community colleges continue to boost year-over-year undergraduate spring enrollment, according to the latest numbers from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.
College and university financial aid offices strained, underequipped and slower at assisting students with FAFSA requests since the Trump administration cut staffing at the Department of Education.
Tribal colleges and universities have endured decades of chronic underfunding, relying heavily on federal support to stay afloat. Now, the Trump administration's broad cuts to federal programs are hitting Indian Country hard, posing a serious threat to the future of these vital institutions.
A congressional proposal would put colleges and universities on the hook when students fail to repay loans. Some experts say that would end up hurting the students themselves.
High school seniors don't have to choose between a gap year and college. There is a third option that more counselors and administrators should be talking about.
College towns are struggling as shrinking enrollment leaves campuses and local businesses empty. Once-thriving communities built around higher education are now facing economic decline and closures.
