Remember the one-hit wonder that was heard throughout dorms across all of America in the fall and spring semesters of the 2008-2009 school year? If not, maybe these lyrics will be of some assistance: “That party last night was awfully crazy, I wish we taped it. I danced my ass off and had this one girl completely naked.” Those few yet significant words stated the ideal college experience for many freshmen throughout the nation. Whether or not this was found to be factual, the song started a craze that lasted for many months.
Although college is hyped up to be the best time of a person’s life, there are still questions as to why so many students do not return after one semester or one full year. Cabrini, although prestigious and highly recognized, is one of many colleges that suffers from increasing attrition rates every school year.
“The number one reason is the cost of Cabrini,” Brian Felice, assistant director of admissions, said. “The price of higher education is consistently rising.”
The United States is suffering tremendously during this recession period. Families are limited with their funds, and they must figure out what is the most beneficial and productive way to save money.
“Some students may not return to Cabrini for numerous reasons, whether it be personal, academic or financial,” Charles Spencer, director of transfer and alumni recruitment, said. “The great unknown consists of students who attend Cabrini for one year and transfer to a state university the following year.”
Larger state schools can be extremely appealing to students who are looking to expand their horizons and meet a greater amount of individuals following their high school graduation. Not only are there more students, but the social scene exceeds those of smaller schools such as Cabrini.
“I would also say that students might be looking for diversity or student involvement. That could be anything, from clubs, parties or games,” Felice said.
Although most adults are not keen on the partying aspect of college, it is a big factor for students when choosing a college. Unfortunately, with the small number of students who attend Cabrini, there are limited social activities for those looking to break out of their shells. Fortunately, Cabrini sports teams are favorable amongst the student body, helping to bring everyone together.
There will always be multiple and unanswerable reasons as to why students do not return to the original college they first attended. It is an issue that will continue to be prevalent in the years to come, regardless of whether there is a recession or not.
For the time being, enjoy each day and try to make the best of any given situation. Just as Asher Roth so eloquently stated, “Pass out at 3, wake up at 10, go out to eat then do it again.”
