Montana, students good for each other

For the past two years, California sent more college students out of state than it received from other states. Last year, about 35,000 young adults left New Jersey to go to college in a neighboring state. Part of this outcome reflects the impact of economics, as tuition has risen and financial aid for students has not kept pace in these states; and part of it reflects the desire of many young adults to discover new places and experience new challenges.

Nevertheless, the University of Montana has experienced record enrollments as students from Montana and the world flock to campus to learn, create new opportunities for themselves and their families, and become productive citizens of the state and world. Between 2005 and 2009, more full-time students entered the Montana University System from 15 Western states (including Arizona, Idaho and Wyoming) than left Montana for a college or university in the region.

Arlene Walker-Andrews is associate provost at the University of Montana.

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