Is college still worth it?

On Thursday, October 9, 2025, join us for an event, presented by Sahan Community Live and MPR News North Star Journey Live, at the Saint Paul Neighborhood Network in St. Paul. Come hear from students of color about how they are weighing the opportunities — and costs — of higher education.

Many young adults are debating whether college is worth it.

Why? Start with the price tag. According to data from the Pew Research Center, nearly a third of Americans don’t believe it’s “worth the cost”; almost half say it isn’t if students need to take out loans to pay for higher ed.

Another major factor: Many younger Americans – including Black and Latino students – contend they can build solid, well-paying careers without seeking any further education. In a 2025 survey by New America, a think tank, more than two-thirds of young Americans agreed “there are lots of well-paying, stable jobs that people can find with only a high school diploma or GED.”

Vocational programs and trade schools are also seeing a bump in participation – a trend now backed by changes to federal funding under President Donald Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’

So what do students of color in Minnesota think about the value and cost of college? Sahan Journal will be asking young Minnesotans these questions in an upcoming community conversation, co-produced with Minnesota Public Radio News and its North Star Journeys Live program.

We’re inviting students and recent grads to share their experiences and their perceptions about what to do after high school. Our onstage panelists will include students of color who are pursuing trades through community college or launching businesses of their own — along with students enrolled for four-year degrees. And we’ll include a few professionals who work to advise and help students find the right path.

Are you a student? A parent or caregiver? An educator or employer? Join Sahan Journal and MPR News as we explore “Is College Worth It?”

Hosts:

• Alberto Villafan, digital producer at Sahan Journal
• Nina Moini, the host of Minnesota Now at MPR News

Check back for panelist announcements!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Saint Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN), 550 Vandalia Street, Saint Paul, United States