What did students do over winter break? Many will sum it up in one word — and that word isn’t “sleep.”

Winter break gave many students a chance to earn money. In fact, even during the school year, nearly half of students in four-year colleges work more than 20 hours a week.

Here are some more results from the study by Public Agenda:

• In community colleges, 60% work more than 20 hours a week — and more than 25% work at least 35 hours a week.
• 23% of college students have dependent children.

The study surveyed young adults 22 to 30 to learn their views on higher education.

In doing so, it dispels some myths about attending college today in the U.S.

For instance, if you think students leave college before graduating because they don’t feel like working hard, the young adults surveyed said it’s actually because it’s hard to devote time to studying when they’re working so many hours.

To see the full report, click here.

Do you think it’s tougher for today’s college students to remain in school and get that diploma? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.

Tags: Public Agenda