Forging Their Own Paths: Student Perspectives on Value in Higher Education

For today’s students and their families, the decision to pursue higher education often requires careful consideration of financial realities. Enrollment decisions are increasingly impacted by practical concerns regarding career readiness and earning potential. But students also yearn for personal growth and a sense of belonging. Rising costs and evolving priorities are reshaping attitudes about higher education and influencing students’ and parents’ decisions. Sodexo’s 2024-25 Student Lifestyle Survey sheds light on how these factors are guiding choices and leading students to emphasize affordability, community, and skill development.

Shifting Priorities: Is College Worth It?

Now more than ever, students and their families are pondering if college is still what opens the door to a brighter future — and many students and parents are rethinking traditional college pathways. With options like full-time employment and trade certifications gaining traction, the focus has shifted to the tangible value of higher education versus the ever-rising cost.

But beyond affordability, students also seek connection and a sense of belonging. 70% of students seek a sense of community on campus, signaling that academics alone aren’t enough to drive enrollment decisions. Successful campuses must foster environments that address these evolving priorities, making higher education a holistic and worthwhile investment.

Affordability: The Heart of Decision-Making

Affordability remains key. Nearly half of students (47%) cite affordability as their top concern when choosing a college. For many students and families, affordability is the most influential factor in deciding where and whether to enroll — and rising tuition and living expenses have led to greater scrutiny of higher education’s value.

This is a big part of why families are looking beyond academics, expecting colleges to offer career preparation, mental health resources, and opportunities for personal growth. Programs that deliver these benefits help reinforce the value of their investment, allowing students to graduate fully prepared for the next phase in their lives.

The Power of the Campus Experience

Vibrant campus life — including opportunities for social interaction, extracurriculars, and quality dining — remains a key factor in student satisfaction and retention.

Dining halls are evolving into community hubs. Over half of students (54%) say campus dining offers good value and is central to their engagement. Additionally, students on meal plans are more likely to feel connected, even if they live off campus.

Since 2022, students have reported significant improvements in campus engagement and belonging, with student satisfaction rising from 64% to 71%. These insights reveal how institutions that prioritize creating spaces where students feel supported are more likely to have increased retention rates and overall higher student satisfaction.

The Need for Connection in Forging Paths

Forging your own path means something different to every student — whether it’s securing a brighter financial future or finding a community where they truly belong. Shared meals, extracurricular programs, and a culture of inclusivity all contribute to a sense of belonging. When campuses invest in these areas, they empower students to navigate their academic journeys with confidence. At Sodexo, we’re committed to understanding and responding to these students’ evolving needs.

The Student Lifestyle Survey serves as a tool for identifying trends and shaping the future of higher education. By partnering with colleges and universities to create campus experiences that build community and foster a sense of belonging, we can inspire, support, and prepare students. Together, we can adapt to meet the needs of today’s students and cultivate higher education spaces that provide valuable and transformative experiences to all students as they forge their own paths.