Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/206965 
Year of Publication: 
2019
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Policy Paper No. 150
Publisher: 
Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
Holzer and Baum's recent book, 'Making College Work: Pathways to Success for Disadvantaged Students,' provides an excellent up-to-date review of higher education. My review first summarizes its key themes: 1) who gains from college and why? 2) mismatch and the need for more structure; 3) problems with remediation; 4) financial barriers and 5) the promise of comprehensive support. I then critique the book's proposed solutions using some of my own qualitative and quantitative data. Some recommendations are worth considering, while others are too expensive or unlikely to make a meaningful difference without addressing the underlying lack of preparedness and motivation of college students. I argue that making mandatory some existing services, such as application assistance and advice, proactive tutoring and advising, and greater career transition support, has the most immediate potential.
Subjects: 
college student achievement
returns to college
higher education policy
signaling
JEL: 
I2
J24
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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