99% of Women Graduates Favor College Education

Does college education for women pay? Do women actually benefit in later life from a college education? Ninety nine percent of 30,000 women college graduates, questioned by the American Association of University women, think so.

In a poll recently conducted by the organization through its publication, "The Journal of the American Association of University Women" asked women college graduates the following questions:

"As you think over your college education, in what ways do you feel it is of value in your life today?"

"In the light of your later experiences, what kinds of improvements or changes would you suggest."

The Association, in a summary and analysis of the answers, says the women questioned were overwhelmingly in favor of college education for women.

"Considering the group as a whole," it claims, "college is believed to have been of value in almost every aspect of life."

"It is something," one member wrote, "that nobody can take away from you--it is a sheet to windward. . . the anchor in a storm."

Although many indicated shortcomings in their college educations, less than one percent said the college training they received was totally worthless.

While only a third of the respondants found college "an intellectual stimulus," almost a half said college had developed them "socially."

"Lasting Friendships"

"College taught me to meet new people easily and enjoy them," one woman said, "Lasting friendships," the opportunity to know students from all parts of the country, and the learning of "Tolerance and understanding" were all mentioned.

Many women said that college gives a women "prestige and social status." Others pointed out that because of their college experiences they were "more community-conscious," and "aware of my obligation to others."

Those who felt they had profited intellectually in college said they had "learned to think critically," acquired "intellectual curiosity," "a thirst for knowledge," and "a rich background of information."

Fifty-seven percent of the women suggested changes and improvements in college education, including a closer relation between college studies and life after college, more freedom in the selection of courses and more professional training.