Effects of Information, Guidance, and Actions on Postsecondary Destinations: A Study of Talent Loss

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Abstract
This study uses National Educational Longitudinal Study data to show that information about higher education, guidance, and essential preparatory actions taken by secondary students influence whether they will attend post-secondary educational institutions (PEIs) within 2 years of high school graduation, and, if so, what types of institutions. The conceptual framework is embedded in research on college choice and talent loss. Talent loss is described as the occurrence of promising students not reaching their full educational potential. Choice theory attempts to explain the myriad factors contributing to individuals’ postsecondary destinations. We find that increased levels of information, guidance, and critical actions taken are positively and significantly associated with initial enrollment in a 4-year PEI, as opposed to enrollment in a 2-year PEI (full or part time) or no enrollment. These factors explain a large part of the effect of socioeconomic status on postsecondary destination, controlling for high school achievement.

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