Causes for College Dropouts

For a lot of reasons, we really want people to graduate these days, however; getting people to graduate is not easy. Thousands of students attend college every year, and unfortunately, not all of them succeed in graduating. As, Mara Tyler says, “A student is more likely to drop out -- whether for a semester or permanently -- if he is not able to strike a healthy balance with work, school, social activities and family” (Tyler). Many students find it hard to balance work, life and school especially in a time where finding jobs are difficult and there is more to getting a job than just schooling. Three of the main factors to why students are dropping out of college are causes outside-the-classroom.
Many students end up getting the job they want and, because of this, drop out of college. In many cases, students who work during college gain promotions to high-paying positions before graduating. Also, students take internships in college that turn into jobs. Since most colleges require a minimum number of courses, school forces students to work fewer hours or give up the chance at a promotion (Tyler). Mark Kantrowitz says, “Nearly three-quarters (71%) of students who dropped out of college said that work contributed to the decision, with more than half (54%) identifying it as a major factor. About a third (35%) said that balancing work and school was too stressful” (Kantrowitz).Therefore, students end up putting college on hold to pursue their job opportunities. Once a student has a position in the field he desires, he may or may not return to school to finish his degree.
For students, the freedom and excitement of being on their own can be too much. Sure, there are perks to college life, such as being able to come and go as you please, eat and drink what you want, and take naps in the middle of the day. But without structure, your good times can come with unpleasant side effects like the “freshman fifteen” or disciplinary actions and academic probation. Donald J.