Is College a Lousy Investment: Negotiating the Hidden Costs of Higher Education

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Is College a Lousy Investment: Negotiating the Hidden Cost of Higher Education discusses many of the economic misconceptions about earning a college degree. While it is widely believed that attending college guarantees wealth and success, students, concerned parents, and higher education professionals have neglected calculating the full-range of short-term and long-terms costs. Our work illustrates how the promotion of education merely as a commodity come at a high price for the individual and society. We argue how the idea of investment can be expanded from a short-sighted view to engage a broader, more holistic rationale for higher education from which students can expect a full return on investment.

Reviews

Choosing a college has become a complex calculation. The authors clearly understand what makes for a great educational experience and provide a clear-eyed discussion of the costs of higher education and, especially helpful, of the many and varied benefits. They also present concrete strategies for success as students make this most important investment in themselves. -- Christopher L Holoman Ph.D, president, Centenary College of Louisiana
The authors of Is College a Lousy Investment: Negotiating the Hidden Costs of Higher Education confront, head on, the widely held notions about the value and costs of a college degree. They introduce compelling arguments about hidden educational costs based on real life experiences. This book will introduce readers to educational options many families have never considered simply because they just didnt know they existed. Motivated readers will find the many sources of data provided by the authors interesting. -- Mwalimu J. Shujaa, Ed.D, Kleinpeter Family Endowed Professor/Chair, Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA
Is College a Lousy Investment Negotiating the Hidden Costs of Higher Education draws the reader in to the ongoing conversation related to the increasing cost of a college degree. Through case studies, the authors connect the dots between what the research says and the thought provoking questions that prospective students and their families seek answers to. Each chapter takes the reader beyond the degree and the potential cost to shine light on the overlooked intangibles that higher education has to offer. Students, parents, and those advising current and potential college students will find value in the intriguing perspectives presented. -- Bridget Hodges, M.S., director, Palisano Learning Center and Trocaire Opportunity Program (HEOP), Trocaire College, Buffalo, NY

Author Bio

Tara Jabbaar-Gyambrah is an education director of workforce development in Buffalo, New York. She also is an adjunct professor in the sociology department at Niagara University. Seneca Vaught is an associate professor of History and Interdisciplinary Studies at Kennesaw State University who combines his expertise in policy, teaching, and social entrepreneurship to address contemporary problems.