LENAWEE CO. — Experts say rural high school seniors may face added challenges when applying to college, including fewer academic resources and less direct recruitment from universities.
A Michigan State University education expert, Sheneka Williams, says students in smaller communities are often overlooked by larger and more selective institutions, which can limit their opportunities to continue their education after graduation.
National data show about one in five public school students attend rural schools. While rural students graduate high school at higher rates than their urban peers, a smaller percentage go on to enroll in college.
In some rural districts, limited staffing and funding can restrict course offerings, making it harder for students to meet admissions requirements for major universities.
Education leaders say expanding access to college-level courses, improving guidance resources, and increasing outreach from colleges could help close the gap and support more rural students in pursuing higher education.