Why Students from Lehigh University Struggle to Graduation on Time
Meeting the expected graduation timeline can present unique challenges for students at Lehigh University, an institution known for its rigorous academic programs and high tuition costs. This article explores the primary factors contributing to the delay in graduation among Lehigh students, presenting insights from a student who graduated in 1959 and drawing from recent trends and analyses by educational researchers.
Historical Context: The Early Years
George, a 1959 graduate, reflects on the challenges faced by Lehigh students in his time. Back then, the University Grade Point Average (GPA) was 1.8 out of 4.0, a significantly lower average than today’s standards. Interestingly, failure to pass a required course was the primary reason for delayed graduation. Approximately 10% of engineering graduates had to extend their studies into summer school or an additional semester to complete their degree requirements. This historical context sets a baseline for understanding the persistence of certain challenges over the decades.
Modern Challenges: The Cost Factor
While the reasons for delayed graduation may seem similar to those in George’s time, the current financial landscape greatly influences today’s students. Lehigh University is among the most expensive private institutions, leading some students to reconsider their undergraduate experience. The diploma typically costs tens of thousands of dollars, making extra semesters or years a significant financial burden. This increased cost can deter students from expediting their degree completion, as highlighted by admissions officer and veteran education guru, Emily Lee.
The Academic Culture: High Expectations and Rigorous Standards
Besides the financial hurdle, the academic culture at Lehigh plays a pivotal role in shaping student behavior. The university is renowned for its challenging academic environment, where students are intellectually driven and highly motivated. The professors are known for pushing students to excel, and grading is often more stringent than at many other institutions. This tough grading system might contribute to a student's reluctance to take additional risks, potentially leading to the failure of key courses and resulting in the need for an extra semester to complete their degree.
Moreover, there is a cultural expectation that all students will graduate on time. This unspoken expectation, while well-intentioned, can create a powerful pressure on students to meet this standard without openly discussing potential challenges. As a result, many students may choose to postpone or avoid requests for extensions, even when needed, to avoid ethical or psychological distress.
Comparative Analysis and Conclusion
The challenges faced by Lehigh students to meet their graduation timelines are not unique to this institution. Many private universities with similar high tuitions and competitive academic environments face similar issues. The combination of high costs, demanding academic standards, and unspoken cultural expectations often creates a perfect storm, contributing to the delay in graduation among scholars at these institutions.
As the education landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for universities to address these challenges head-on by offering financial support, alternative graduation pathways, and open discussions about the realities of student life and academic pursuit. By recognizing and addressing these issues, Lehigh and similar institutions can ensure a more supportive and inclusive environment for all their students.