Final answer:
Students often drop out of college due to a lack of support, with many struggling without the structured attendance systems of high school. Financial pressures, such as high tuition costs, student loan debt, and uncertain post-graduation employment, also play significant roles. Additionally, economic choices regarding the opportunity cost of college education can lead to decisions to drop out for immediate employment.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the reasons cited for why students dropped out of college is the lack of support. In high school, students receive more consistent monitoring and enforcement of attendance by schools and teachers, which is not as prevalent in college. The independence in college sometimes leads to poor attendance choices, such as going to the beach or to the mall, with no immediate disciplinary consequences. Many students struggle without this structured environment, especially when away from their family and established support systems.
Additional stressors contributing to college dropout rates include financial pressures, such as rising tuition rates, burdensome debt, and uncertainty about employment after graduation. For instance, students may be concerned about incurring student loan debt that they won't be able to repay. Moreover, the stress of potentially not finding suitable employment after graduation can discourage students from completing their studies.
Economic factors also play a role, as the opportunity cost of attending college may lead some to prefer current employment and consumption over the delayed gratification of a college degree. The fear of accumulating debt and the allure of immediate earnings can be compelling reasons for students to drop out of college.