Notes in the Margins: Size, admissions madness and women in STEM

Does school size affect a student’s ability to graduate in four years? Students from the University of Texas Austin and St Edward's University both find four-year success. (The New York Times)

College admissions madness may ease It's the other March Madness: College acceptance season is underway, with schools now sending out e-mails and letters to students across the country about whether they have been admitted or rejected. A new study says that the madness may ease over the next decade as the number of high school graduates drops. (The Washington Post)

What Exactly Is Drawing Young Women Away From STEM Fields? Previous research suggests that STEM fields are perceived by women as being object- or thing-oriented, male-dominated, and not family friendly -- issues that have yet to be addressed on a meaningful level. Educators and policy makers tend to focus on strengthening girls' math ability at earlier ages. However, this may be missing the point. Instead, we need to consider tapping into the already-existing potential of those females who are both mathematically and verbally skilled. (The Huffington Post)

Chicago State president fires VP for questioning salary hikes Chicago State University President Wayne Watson dismissed his vice president of administration and finance, who said he was fired this week in retaliation after raising questions about the salary increases and other decisions by Watson. (Chicago Tribune via Education Dive)

Community college enrollment at 20-year low Burdened by funding cuts, the system has fewer course offerings, especially in education, business, music and dance, a report says. (Los Angeles Times via Career College Central)

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