New Research from Young Invincibles Shows Importance of Online Search In College Search Process for Working Adults and First-Generation Students

In an effort to better understand the college search process for today’s students, Young Invincibles used a mixed methods approach to learn about students’ search experience and the information they seek. It was conducted an online poll of nearly 300 working 22-44 year olds who were considering higher education, as well as those currently enrolled in a degree or certificate program. It came as no surprise that the vast majority (72 percent) of respondents used an online search engine, predominantly Google (88 percent), to learn more about colleges. It was also conducted six focus groups with nearly 40 students ages 17 to 36 years old, including first-generation students, working-adult students, and students earning their GED who are considering postsecondary education. This report presents the findings.