Self-doubt beat the cost of education as a reason more Americans aren't going to college

Self-doubt beat the cost of education as a reason more Americans aren't going to college
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  • A major reason Americans are not getting a college degree is because of self doubt, according to a survey of 10,000 people by the nonprofit Strada Education Network.
  • Some 42% of high school graduates are very interested in post-secondary education, but mental barriers appear to be holding them back. While the top reason more Americans weren't pursuing a college degree was logistics (not having enough time, not having transportation), the second most common reason was a lack of self confidence.
  • Nearly half of all respondents fear they won't be successful students or say they have been out of school too long, the poll found.
  • Self-doubt ranked as a more common reason than the cost of education, which placed third on the list.
  • Holders of bachelor's degree earn about $32,000 more each year than those whose highest degree is a high school diploma, research shows.
  • If you struggle with a lack of confidence, check out how successful people have overcome imposter syndrome, the worry of being exposed as a fraud. You can also consider investing in books to help build your self-esteem.
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