The Myth of the College Dropout

What is the main argument presented by Jonathan Wai and Heiner Rindermann in the text?

• College dropouts are more successful than graduates.

• Most successful people in the U.S. are college graduates.

• Elite schools guarantee success.

• College education is not important.

Which detail from the text best supports the argument?

• "Numerous media stories and even famous billionaires are glamorizing dropouts or encouraging kids to skip college entirely" (paragraph 4).

• "While it's true there are successful college dropouts, statistically speaking, they are not the norm...we found that the vast majority of the country's success stories are college graduates" (paragraph 5).

• "Yet, out data show that for students with talent and motivation to make it to the top of U.S. society, an elite college might just help you get there...." (paragraph 11).

• "However, if you're a student thinking about not going to college or considering dropping out, remember that even Gates and Zuckerberg got into college" (paragraph 13).

According to the text, what percentage of U.S. leaders attended college?

• 50%

• 75%

• 94%

• 100%

What is the estimated percentage of all U.S. undergraduates who attended an elite school?

• 2 to 5%

• 10 to 15%

• 20 to 25%

• 30 to 35%

What does the text suggest about the importance of attending an elite school for long-term earnings?

• It is critical for success.

• There is no difference in income compared to less selective schools.

• It guarantees a high income.

• It is not important at all.

Which word best describes the author's attitude towards the concept of dropping out of college?

• Supportive

• Dismissive

• Critical

• Neutral

In the context of the article, what does the term "myth" mean as it is used in the title and text of the article?

• a story that explains the natural world

• a commonly repeated but misunderstood concept

• a rare occurrence

• Sisyphus pushing a rock uphill continuously

 The author uses the phrase "climbing the ladder of success." What does this metaphor suggest about societal views on education?

• Education is the only path to success.

• Success is easily attainable without education.

• There are multiple paths to success.

•  Education is a hindrance to success.