A student’s decision to attend a particular college might hinge on more than the academics available.
University of Michigan researcher found many students prefer colleges that spend money on amenities such as sports and dorms, although “high-achieving students” would rather invest in academic needs and instruction.
Colleges face the challenge of catering to a diverse student population and future students.
Selective colleges focus more on academic spending, whereas less selective schools try to attract students through incentives such as athletic facilities and university-funded activities.
Kevin Stange, assistant professor of public policy at U-M, was one of the researchers to work on the study.
Data is not broken down based on individual schools, so specific information on MSU was not readily available.
“Michigan State is a selective university, so they are providing those academics, but probably more towards the consumption side,” Stange said.
Universities have different demand pressures based on student population, and those schools with more pressure tend to spend more, Stange said.
Jasmine Baker, a human development and family studies junior, said she would choose a good education before a nice dorm room. Baker said she came here to go to MSU’s highly ranked College of Education.
“I would rather go to a good school and spend my money on academics,“ Baker said. “Consumer things are good, but I’d rather spend my money and have a good degree and be marketable when I leave.”
Stange said the he does not know from his research if the number of college students seeking consumption amenities has changed across the years.
Director of admissions Jim Cotter said part of MSU students’ education does not always take place behind a desk.
“I think that one’s education is an experience,” Cotter said. “Students who are looking to Michigan State can not only learn in the classroom, but also take what they learn in the classroom and apply that outside of the classroom.”
Cotter said some of the things admissions tells prospective students about are study abroad opportunities, academic offerings and intramural sports.
Baker said she thinks more MSU students are here for the college experience, but she said students should focus more on what they came here for, which it to get an education.
“People used to go to school all the time with less nice dorms and they were fine,” she said. “So, I don’t think it should be a high priority.”
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