The College Dropout Scandal

The College Dropout Scandal examines the crisis of college student attrition in America, where 40% of undergraduates fail to earn a degree. Author David Kirp investigates why millions of students leave higher education each year despite the proven economic and social benefits of completing college. Through research and case studies at institutions across the country, Kirp reveals systemic barriers that derail students, including financial pressures, inadequate academic support, and challenges transitioning to campus life. The book spotlights universities that have implemented data-driven programs and policy changes to boost graduation rates. Kirp presents solutions and success stories from schools that have moved beyond traditional sink-or-swim approaches to create environments where students can thrive. He documents how strategic investments in mentoring, counseling, and proactive intervention have helped more students persist to graduation. The book makes a compelling case that America's dropout crisis is not inevitable, but rather the result of institutional choices that can be reformed through committed leadership and evidence-based practices. The narrative connects individual student experiences to broader questions about equality, social mobility, and the purpose of higher education.

Readers found this book brings attention to an urgent issue but lacks depth in proposed solutions. Many noted it effectively outlines the scope of college dropout rates and their impact on students, families, and society. Liked: - Clear presentation of statistics and research - Compelling student stories and examples - Accessible writing style for non-academic readers - Focus on practical institutional changes Disliked: - Solutions section feels rushed and incomplete - Too much focus on selective universities - Limited discussion of community colleges - Repetitive points throughout chapters A common critique is that the book presents known information without breaking new ground. One reader noted: "The problems are well-documented but the solutions feel superficial." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (42 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (31 ratings) Most detailed reader reviews appear on Amazon, where educators and higher education professionals make up many of the reviewers.

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The Privileged Poor by Anthony Abraham Jack This study reveals how elite colleges fail low-income students through institutional barriers and unwritten social rules.

Moving Up without Losing Your Way by Jennifer Morton This examination explores the hidden costs first-generation college students face when pursuing higher education, from family obligations to cultural transitions.

Lower Ed by Tressie McMillan Cottom This analysis exposes how for-profit colleges exploit social inequalities and leave vulnerable students with debt and unfulfilled promises.

Who Gets In and Why by Jeffrey Selingo This inside look at college admissions reveals how institutions make decisions and how the system perpetuates social and economic disparities.

🎓 Only 60% of students who start college actually finish their degree within six years 📊 Low-income students are three times less likely to graduate than their wealthier peers, even when academic abilities are similar 👨‍🏫 Author David Kirp is a professor of public policy at UC Berkeley and has served as a member of Barack Obama's presidential transition team 💰 The annual cost of college dropouts to taxpayers is approximately $4 billion in lost earnings and taxes 🏫 Georgia State University, featured prominently in the book, raised its graduation rate by 23 percentage points through innovative student support programs, including predictive analytics and micro-grants