OK, maybe college was never uncool. But in this recession, college attendance among young adults is the highest it’s ever been. Ever.

Here’s proof: In October 2008, close to 40 percent of 18- to 24-year-olds were enrolled in college, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of newly released data from the Census Bureau. That translates into almost 11.5 million young adults in higher ed.

Of course, a majority of the college enrollment growth has come at community colleges, where enrollment tends to rise as the economy worsens. After all, who can afford a pricey private college education when community college offers a good education for a fraction of the cost?

But it’s not all about money. Even though the most growth has been seen at community colleges, enrollment at four-year colleges has remained steady despite annual tuition increases that outpace inflation.

So why is everyone flocking to college? In a downturned economy, going to college can seem counterintuitive – who can afford tuition when they can’t find a decent paying job? But the adage “you have to give something to get something” might put the situation into perspective.

During this recession, the national unemployment rate has been at its highest level in more than 25 years. We’re all feeling it, but many young adults are bearing the brunt of the strain. Just 46 percent of 16- to 24-year-olds were employed in September 2009, reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s the lowest percentage since 1948, when the government began collecting this kind of data.

Recession Redemption
The choice for college speaks volumes about the anticipated and proven outcomes of a college education. If young adults can’t find work now, and therefore decide to go to college, they must be doing so because they believe education will help them get a job. And not just any job – college education translates into higher positions and salaries than high school diplomas do.

When you think about it, the data paints a picture of hope. Instead of bemoaning the current financial situation, young adults are taking their future into their own hands by pursuing higher education. They’ve determined that their lives can be better than what they know today, and they’re turning that possibility into reality.

So maybe the recession hasn’t been a total loss. If it has motivated people to do something good for themselves – something that might have otherwise escaped their list of priorities – the economy might just be redeemable after all.

What about you – have you been able to redeem the recession? It’s evident that young people view college as a worthwhile investment. Have you thought about the benefits of pursuing higher education, especially in tough economic times?

The fact is that whether you’re out of work, in need of a promotion, or ready for a career change, choosing college is always a smart move. Is the recession what it will take for you to make a change? If so, take advantage of the opportunity to make a better life for yourself. Education can always take you where you want to go.

-Robyn Tellefsen