Young Crowd in College - Why is That?

Okay, so I've been wondering. We see people of all ages going back to school, but the majority of the college population seems to be fresh out of high school. Why is it that mostly younger people attend university? Is it just an age thing, or are there more factors at play?

There are several factors that contribute to why younger people typically account for the majority of college students.

One factor is societal expectations and norms. Our society typically promotes the pathway from high school straight to college. This has become ingrained as the "normal" trajectory, and deviation from this timeline is often seen as unconventional. This is steadily changing with more adults returning to school later in life, but a large majority of students still follow this traditional path.

Aside from societal norms, there are also financial and logistical reasons. Many older adults have responsibilities such as full-time jobs, mortgages, raising kids, and other commitments that make it challenging to dedicate the time and resources college education demands. Younger students, in contrast, usually have more flexibility and fewer commitments, making it easier for them to dive into full-time studies.

Further, financial aid tends to favor traditional-aged college students. Scholarships and grants often target students graduating from high school, with many grants and scholarships having age limits. Federally subsidized loans are more easily obtainable for students aged 24 and under, as they are often considered to be dependent on their parents for tuition and living costs.

Another reason lies in the benefits of immediate continuation of studies. When students go straight into college from high school, they are able to carry forward their momentum in academics. This continuity can make the transition easier because they are still in "student mode" in terms of studying habits and academic expectations. They may find it easier to absorb new material, take exams, write essays, and stay organized, as these skills have been recently honed in high school. This is not to say that non-traditional students can't excel in these areas, but it might take more initial effort to get back into the swing of things after a gap in formal education.

It's worth noting that despite these factors, the landscape of higher education is shifting, with more and more adults returning to school. Universities and colleges increasingly recognize the value of life experience and maturity in the classroom and are adapting their programs to accommodate these students better. Non-traditional students bring diverse perspectives and experiences, enriching the learning environment for all students. Therefore, while the younger crowd may still dominate, door for education is open to all ages.