This spring, high school seniors face a tough decision: where to go to college. While factors like school rankings and academic programs are common considerations, some students are also factoring in state politics. The recent Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade has caused concern for students like Grace, a senior in South Carolina. She worries about limited access to abortion and the potential impact on women’s rights in general.
The conversation around state politics and college decisions is not uncommon. A Gallup survey conducted after the Dobbs ruling showed that 73% of young adults consider reproductive health laws when choosing a college. Students today are more engaged and vocal about their concerns, discussing politics with their friends, parents, and even in their classrooms.
Sara Harberson, a private college admissions counselor, confirms this trend. She has noticed that students are driving the conversation about regional politics when considering colleges. It doesn’t matter if they lean liberal or conservative – what matters is that politics matter to them. This can sometimes lead to tension at home when families have differing opinions on where to apply.
For some families, like the Sonys in Columbus, Ohio, access to nonrestrictive reproductive health care is a nonnegotiable factor in choosing a college. Syna Sony, a high school senior, eliminated schools in states with restrictive abortion laws from her list of potential options. Her mother, Deepti, supports this decision after personally experiencing the impact of an abortion ban. Ohio voters later rolled back the ban, giving the family more options and relieving their concerns.
Abortion access is not the only political concern on students’ minds. Gun laws and LGBTQ+ rights also play a significant role in college choices. A poll by Art & Science Group found that 25% of high school students ruled out institutions solely based on political policies in a state. Aly Phillips, a nonbinary student, had to remove several dream schools from their list due to concerns about their safety and well-being in conservative states.
While politics may influence college choices, finances remain a top priority for many students and parents. The cost of attendance is a significant factor that cannot be ignored. However, scholarships and financial aid can make a difference. For Grace, who has received scholarships from schools in conservative states, the decision is not solely about money. She wants to attend college in a state with more liberal laws and feels anxious when considering schools in Alabama, despite her acceptance there.
It’s important to have open discussions as a family and consider all factors – the financial aspect, comfort levels, and the policies and politics of a state. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the student’s safety and happiness. The influence of politics on everyday decisions like choosing a college is a testament to the increasing engagement of young adults in our society.
To read the original article, visit F5mag.com.