"Recession sending more students to comm. colleges" (AP, 02/08/09)

The two-year schools are reporting unprecedented enrollment increases this semester, driven by students from traditional colleges seeking more bang for their buck and by laid-off older workers.

In Tough Times, More Turn to Two-Year Schools

Community colleges in Mississippi expect to see increased enrollments this year and next year. "When people are out of work, it's an opportune time for them to go back and learn a new skill, a new trade," said Ed Smith of Jones County Junior College. The Hattiesburg American, October 23, 2008

Helping Community College Students Beat the Odds

Each semester, many community college students have to address an important and nagging question, “Should I stay or should I go?” Inside Higher Ed, October 8, 2008

A 'Penalty' for Starting at a Community College?me

See the working paper. Inside Higher Ed, October 1, 2008

Weak economy spurs growth for community colleges

"Two-year community colleges are seeing record enrollment as families squeezed by tough economic times steer high school graduates away from more expensive four-year universities." (The New York Times)