Almost three-quarters of Americans believe college isn’t just about school — it also teaches important life lessons. That’s according to a new poll of 2,000 adults, which revealed 73% agree that college educates you about adult life beyond coursework and the classroom. While doing well in school and getting good grades was found to be the hardest part of college (46%), time management (45%), having more responsibilities (44%) and living on your own (43%) also were some of the top challenges. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Texas Tech University, results also revealed that 44% are currently considering returning to college or, if they’ve never been, going for the first time. Approximately two in five respondents (44%) are keen to try college again not because they disliked their first experience but because they didn’t learn enough vital life skills, such as banking or time management (40%). On top of that, 42% of those polled are simply interested in learning new skill sets and 39% want to change their career path. Respondents also cited certain areas where colleges could improve. Helping with job interviews and applications (42%) and being affordable for all students (39%) ranked high on the list. But when it comes to choosing a school, respondents consider a few specific factors. Classes or seminars that teach about life beyond the classroom (41%) and positive testimonials from current or previous students (41%) would encourage respondents to choose a certain school. “We all hear the national conversations about the costs of attending college, asking whether the experience is worth it,” said Texas Tech vice president for enrollment management Jamie Hansard. “While what students learn in the classroom can be foundational for the goals and careers they want to pursue, it’s important to understand that the value of college goes far beyond a person’s academic achievements.” Of the respondents who have attended college, 85% believe college prepared them for adult life, but 80% agree if they could go back, they would change some things about their college experience.
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