Divergent Paths to College: Race, Class, and Inequality in High Schools

Megan M. Holland's book Divergent Paths to College explores how high schools structure different pathways that lead students to different college destinations based on race and class, reproducing racial and class inequalities. Social capital, or relationships with people who can provide information and support, becomes increasingly critical in the college application process, and high schools can serve as organizational brokers of social ties.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2018
Publisher: Rutgers University Press

In her book, Divergent Paths to College, Megan M. Holland delves into the intricate ways in which high schools establish diverse pathways that ultimately lead students to vastly different college destinations, often influenced by factors such as race and class. Through her comprehensive analysis, she reveals that racial and class inequalities are perpetuated through unequal access to crucial sources of information, even among students within the same school and even in schools with well-established college-going cultures. As the college application process becomes increasingly complex and high-stakes, the importance of social capital, or relationships with individuals who can provide valuable information, support, and guidance, becomes paramount. While much has been written about the college-bound experience, there remains a significant gap in our understanding of the role that social capital plays, particularly in the context of high schools as organizational brokers of social ties.

One critical yet unexplored source of college information is the relationships that high schools cultivate between students and higher education institutions by inviting college admissions officers into their schools to market to students. By providing students with direct access to college representatives, high schools can help bridge the information gap and empower students to make informed decisions about their future. This approach not only enhances students' understanding of the college application process but also fosters valuable connections between students and higher education institutions, which can have long-lasting impacts on their academic and professional success.

Furthermore, high schools can play a crucial role in promoting equity and diversity in college admissions by implementing policies and programs that support underrepresented students. This may include providing financial aid, counseling, and mentorship programs to help students navigate the college application process, as well as offering courses and extracurricular activities that promote diversity and inclusion. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, high schools can help level the playing field and ensure that all students have access to the opportunities they deserve.

In conclusion, Divergent Paths to College provides valuable insights into the ways in which high schools structure different pathways that lead students to diverse college destinations. By examining the role of social capital and promoting equity and diversity in college admissions, high schools can play a critical role in preparing students for success in higher education and beyond. As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of college admissions, it is essential to recognize the importance of high schools as organizational brokers of social ties and to work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive system for all students.

Weight: 306g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813590257