Paying the Price: College Costs, Financial Aid, and the Betrayal of the American Dream

Paying the Price addresses the evolving economics of higher education in America. It explores how the rising costs of college and the complexities of financial aid have altered the traditional promise of a degree leading to a secure future. Drawing from real-life stories and the Wisconsin Scholars Longitudinal Study, this book reveals the financial struggles students face and offers insights into making college affordable.

What You'll Learn

• How college costs have transformed over the years
• The role of Pell Grants in student aid
• Strategies for students to manage financial challenges
• Insights into family dynamics affecting education
• How to navigate the financial aid system
• Making college affordable through actionable steps

Who This Book Is For

This book is ideal for students, parents, and educators who are navigating the complex landscape of higher education financing. It's particularly valuable for policymakers and those involved in education reform.

What You Need to Know First

Readers should have a basic understanding of the U.S. higher education system and its financial aid mechanisms. Familiarity with the socioeconomic factors affecting education will enhance comprehension.

Why This Book

Sara Goldrick-Rab's work stands out due to its empirical foundation and real-world case studies, offering a detailed analysis of the financial barriers in higher education. It combines both research and actionable insights.

What's Inside

Authored by Sara Goldrick-Rab, this 344-page book provides an in-depth look at college costs and financial aid. Published by The University of Chicago Press, it includes comprehensive data and narratives from the Wisconsin Scholars Longitudinal Study.