In today’s society, education plays a pivotal role in shaping one’s future. However, the question arises: Is access to college a genuine opportunity or merely a privilege? The book College Access: Opportunity or Privilege? dives deep into this pressing issue, providing an insightful analysis that highlights the disparities in educational opportunities available to students from varying economic backgrounds.

Authored by renowned scholars Michael S. McPherson and Morton Owen Schapiro, along with contributions from sixteen other experts, this book presents a comprehensive and data-rich perspective on the realities faced by low-income students in the United States. The authors delve into three sweeping themes that are crucial for understanding the landscape of higher education:

The authors, both accomplished figures in the field of education and economics, bring their vast experience to the forefront. Michael S. McPherson, currently the president of The Spencer Foundation, has dedicated his career to researching how education can be improved. His coauthor, Morton Owen Schapiro, has been the president of Williams College since 2000 and is a leading authority on the economics surrounding higher education.

The statistics are stark and concerning. In the United States, students from low-income families are less likely to graduate from high school, and those who do are often funneled into public community colleges rather than elite institutions. This book tackles the challenge of unequal educational opportunities head-on, supported by quantitative data and expert analyses.

In addition to the themes discussed, College Access emphasizes the necessity for colleges to provide full access to both high-cost and low-cost institutions. By doing so, the authors argue, the nation can maintain its global competitiveness. The book not only sheds light on the current challenges but also presents pathways for meaningful change.

Charles M. Vest, Professor and President Emeritus of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, praises the work as an essential resource for policymakers and educational leaders. He acknowledges the integrated, data-rich view of the realities and issues regarding access to higher education that the book provides.

Furthermore, Bob Wise, President of the Alliance for Excellent Education and a former governor, highlights that the book illuminates practical ways to address economic inequality in postsecondary education. He expresses hope that it will inspire collective action toward real change.

Lester Monts, a senior faculty member, commends the book for its comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the institutional, political, and societal factors contributing to inequality in higher education. He believes it serves as an invaluable guide for anyone passionate about expanding educational opportunities in the country.

In conclusion, College Access: Opportunity or Privilege? is more than just a book; it is a call to action. It challenges readers to reflect on the systemic barriers that hinder low-income students from achieving their educational aspirations and encourages the development of policies that foster inclusivity and equity in higher education.