Hurst (sociology, Oregon State Univ.) examines whether small liberal arts colleges (SLACs) amplify or ameliorate preexisting class disparities. To illustrate the impact class has on student outcomes and experiences, the author uses surveys, observations, and interview data collected from students at several SLACs. She employs central concepts of Pierre Bourdieu's theory on class, such as capital and habitus, to frame the results of her study. Through stories and thick description, Hurst unpacks the complexity of how social class influences students' strategies, such as what they choose to study and what they do after graduation. This research shows that SLACs offer an invaluable education to students of all social classes, but ultimately students from economically privileged backgrounds fare better than their peers despite having similar curricular and extracurricular experiences. Although the tone and style of this book are appropriate for academics, general audiences may also find the text appealing and highly readable. . . Hurst's well-researched book is insightful and should be read by students, faculty, and college administrators. Summing Up: Recommended. General readers, upper-division undergraduates through faculty, and professionals.
* CHOICE *Acknowledgements
Prologue
Chapter One: Introduction
Chapter Two: A Short History of Higher Education and the Small Liberal Arts College in the US
Chapter Three: Orientation: Understanding Who Goes to Small Liberal Arts Colleges and Why?
Chapter Four: Agency and Constraint in the College Selection Process
Chapter Five: Paying for College
Chapter Six: Learning the Liberal Arts: The Curriculum
Chapter Seven: Living the Liberal Arts: Campus Life
Chapter Eight: Outside the College Gates
Chapter Nine: Graduating (in a Recession)
Chapter Ten: Conclusion: Habitus, Capitals, Game
Appendix: The School to Work Study
Notes
References
Index
About the Author