Is college worth it? Headlines often highlight declining confidence in higher education and drops in college enrollment. But how are these trends affecting young people in New York City? What makes young New Yorkers question the value of higher education? Most importantly, what could make them feel more confident that college is worth it?

This summer, CARA Peer Leaders and interns are guiding a research project focused on the changing views of higher education among young New Yorkers. With rising costs, more young people are questioning if college is worth the investment. However, attending college remains a crucial path to the middle class, especially for low-income New Yorkers of color. Through this project, CARA aims to understand what shapes young people’s views on college and how schools can address their concerns, ultimately setting them on a path to social mobility.

CARA’s first-ever Youth Research Council—composed of eight College Bridge Coaches and interns—is steering this project from start to finish. They are helping the CARA team decide on research questions, interpret data, and share findings with policymakers in NYC. Too often, research is conducted on people, not by people. By establishing a Youth Research Council, this project aims to authentically amplify the voices of young New Yorkers who have traditionally been left out of policy decisions.

Through this youth-led work, we aim to understand the current trends in education and empower young people to influence policies that directly affect their futures. So – what do you think? Follow this important conversation, and let us know what you think on Instagram or on LinkedIn.