Beyond Tuition: Understanding the Hidden Challenges for Students

Posted on May 15, 2025

As we celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025 across the U.S., we also pause to reflect on what it took for students to cross the finish line. At Owens Community College, we’ve always known that success isn’t just measured in credit hours or diplomas—it’s found in the determination, sacrifice and resilience of the individuals earning them.

Our latest results from the Fall 2024 Student Financial Wellness Survey, conducted by Trellis Strategies, provide a timely and honest look at the lives of our students and the challenges they face as they strive forward. We see many of these same trends with students from colleges and universities across the country.

Nearly half, 49%, of Owens students identify as workers who go to school, not the other way around. And 30% are parents. These are students balancing work, caregiving and life’s everyday demands, all while pursuing education.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, nationally, higher education is seeing a shift toward part-time, working and older learners, especially at community colleges. The “typical” student is no longer 18 and fresh out of high school. While that trend may be emerging for other institutions, at Owens, that evolution is already here.

While 73% of Owens students believe college is a smart financial investment, 60% still worry about affording it. In fact:

These numbers mirror national trends. According to the Hope Center’s 2023-24 research, basic needs insecurity remains a top challenge for students, even as institutions expand wraparound support. Among 74,350 survey participants across the U.S., the Center found that 59% of college students experience at least one form of basic needs insecurity related to food or housing. Financial instability is no longer the exception; it’s the backdrop of college life for many.

Financial anxiety doesn’t just hit wallets—it affects minds and hearts.

Mental health remains a significant national concern. The American Council on Education reports that student well-being is a top priority for college presidents in 2025. Owens is no different; we’re focused on improving access and caring for our students beyond the classroom.

We know that this study addressed just a portion of the barriers students face. For example, through our Toledo Feasibility Study, our Findlay Enrollment Study, and other campus research, we know that access to transportation is a concern for many Owens students. Trellis Strategies’ 2022 Student Financial Wellness Survey found that nationally, “Students who are unable to reliably commute to their college campus stand to fall behind in school or drop out altogether.”

We also know that these barriers don’t immediately disappear upon graduation. As graduates transition from being students to colleagues, many of these challenges remain. That’s one of the reasons we are proud that some of our wraparound support services, like our food pantry, are open to our entire Owens family.

This year’s graduates earned more than degrees. They earned the right to be seen, heard and supported. They found a place to belong. And their stories inform how we shape the Owens experience for those who follow.

As we celebrate commencement, we also recommit to our purpose: to be a conduit for changing lives by supporting every student academically, financially and emotionally so they don’t just start strong, but finish strong.

Because behind every data point is a person who believed that a better life was possible—and made it happen.

Dione D. Somerville, Ed.D.
President