A while ago, I made the claim that Oregon State University has the longest streak of consecutive years of fall-over-fall enrollment growth of any public, Research 1 university in America. A few people have asked me, not exactly doubting the claim, but thinking maybe I had made a mistake, for the source of it.
This started as a curiosity: I knew from our own internal documentation that the last time OSU (the oldest OSU…not the one in Ohio or Oklahoma) had a fall-to-fall enrollment drop was 1996, and I was curious to see if any other institution could make that claim. So I went to the IPEDS Data Center and downloaded the data.
It’s below. First, a few points: My comparison group is 108 Public, four-year, Research 1 Universities as designated by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education as of Fall, 2022, the latest IPEDS data available. The R1 designation is actually called “Doctoral Institutions: Very High Research Activity” but the nickname R1 is a holdover from prior years. The category contains those institutions who produce the highest research activity and output among American universities.
What you can’t see here is that 2023 showed an increase (it’s not yet in IPEDS, but trust me), and that 2024 will also show an increase once our census is final. So OSU’s record is the 26 shown, plus last year, plus this coming year, for a total of 28 years.
There are a couple of small anomalies with the data, as there always seems to be. First, some institutions missed a year or two in their reporting. Even if those years had shown an increase, they were already nullified by other decreases. And Penn State has bounced around from being one institution to being several to being one again; this too does not seem to make a difference in the tally.
The first chart here shows all years and all institutions (you’ll have to scroll down to see them all using the bar on the right.) You’ll notice that every institution shown (other than OSU) has at least two years with a blue box after 1997, meaning a decrease. Hover over the box for details. Orange shows an increase from the prior year.
The second chart shows individual enrollment data for any institution you select, using the filter at the top. The bars are colored similarly: Orange for increase, and blue for decrease.
If I’ve missed something or you think these data points are wrong, let me know. If a university decided intentionally to shrink, for whatever reason, that’s interesting, but not the point of this visualization. If you want to look at just graduates or undergraduates or men or women or students of color or some other variable, I encourage you to read my posts here and here about how to download IPEDS data for yourself.
And as always, leave a comment below if you find something interesting.
Well, you might relate to some of these potential reasons you’re single.
Have a read and see which ones resonate with your life experience. I’ve also made a video (bottom of page) if you prefer to watch rather than read!
10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
10. High Standards
What you Might Say: “I’m just not willing to settle for anything less than perfect.”
Many people remain single because they have high standards for potential partners. They might be looking for someone who meets a specific set of criteria, such as shared interests, values, or life goals. While having standards is important, it can also limit opportunities to connect with a broader range of individuals who might be compatible in unexpected ways.
9. Fear of Commitment
What you Might Say: “I’m not ready to give up my freedom for a relationship.”
The fear of commitment can keep people from entering into relationships. They might worry about losing their independence or fear the vulnerability that comes with being close to someone. This anxiety can lead to avoiding deep connections and thus staying single.
8. Past Trauma
What you Might Say: “I’ve been hurt before, and I can’t go through that again.”
Individuals with unresolved past trauma, such as previous relationship heartbreak or family issues, may find it hard to open up to new partners. The emotional scars can create barriers to trust and intimacy, making it challenging to form new relationships. Therapy and self-reflection can help in overcoming these barriers.
7. Focus on Career
What you Might Say: “My career is my priority right now, and I can’t afford distractions.”
A strong focus on career advancement can leave little time for dating and relationships. People who prioritize their professional goals may find it difficult to balance their personal lives. This dedication to career success can inadvertently lead to prolonged periods of being single.
6. Social Anxiety
What you Might Say: “Dating is too stressful; I’d rather avoid it altogether.”
Social anxiety can make it difficult for individuals to meet new people and engage in social activities where they might find a partner. The fear of judgment or rejection in social situations can be overwhelming. Managing social anxiety through therapy or gradual exposure to social settings can improve chances of finding a relationship.
5. Independence
What you Might Say: “I love my alone time too much to be tied down.”
Some people value their independence and enjoy the freedom that comes with being single. They might find fulfillment in their own company and activities, making them less inclined to seek a partner. This self-sufficiency can be a conscious choice to remain single rather than a situation they wish to change.
4. Unresolved Personal Issues
What you Might Say: “I have too much to work on personally before I can be in a relationship.”
Personal issues such as low self-esteem, depression, or other mental health concerns can impact one’s ability to form and maintain relationships. These issues can create negative self-perceptions and affect interactions with potential partners. Addressing personal challenges through professional help can improve one’s readiness for a healthy relationship.
3. Unrealistic Expectations
What you Might Say: “No one seems to meet the standards I have in my mind.”
Unrealistic expectations about what a relationship should be can prevent people from finding a partner. They might have idealized views influenced by media or past experiences that set an unattainable bar for real-life relationships. Learning to appreciate imperfections and the reality of relationships can open doors to meaningful connections.
2. Lifestyle Choices
What you Might Say: “I can’t find anyone else who’s willing to live with my vegan diet and my three big hairy dogs.”
Certain lifestyle choices, such as frequent travel, unconventional work hours, or specific hobbies, can make it harder to find and maintain relationships. These choices might not align with the traditional dating scene or expectations. Finding someone with similar lifestyle preferences or being flexible can help bridge this gap.
1. Prioritizing Other Relationships
What you Might Say: “I’m more focused on my friends and family right now.”
People might prioritize relationships with family, friends, or children over romantic relationships. This can be due to a strong sense of duty, satisfaction from existing relationships, or personal circumstances. Balancing these important relationships with the desire for a romantic partner can be challenging but necessary for a fulfilling love life.
Watch my Video on Why you’re Still Single Below!
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]
Montessori spaces are designed for independent, hands-on learning in a child-friendly environment. They encourage exploration and development across multiple areas of learning. Common features you might find in a Montessori learning environment include:
Child-sized furniture: Easy for kids to use.
Open shelves: Accessible learning materials on display.
Montessori Fact: Montessori spaces are designed to foster independence and self-directed learning.
#2.
Montessori Fact: Montessori bedrooms are designed to be aesthetically pleasing, natural, and educational.
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Montessori Fact: Montessori spaces use hands-on learning materials to teach concepts.
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Montessori Fact: The environment in a Montessori bedroom is carefully prepared to be orderly and inviting.
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Montessori Fact: The Montessori philosophy emphasizes practical life skills alongside academic learning.
#6
Montessori Fact: Montessori-inspired parents act as guides to support curiosity and holistic development.
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Montessori Fact: Montessori spaces allow children to choose their activities from a range of options.
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Montessori Fact: Montessori materials are designed to be self-correcting to encourage independent problem-solving.
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Montessori Fact: Montessori spaces in your home can include areas for reading, math, science, and art.
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Montessori Fact: The Montessori philosophy aims to develop a child’s natural curiosity and love of learning.
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Montessori Fact: Montessori spaces encourage collaborative learning between siblings and friends, and with parents.
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Montessori Fact: Maria Montessori suggests we should give children uninterrupted blocks of play time.
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Montessori Fact: The Montessori philosophy places a strong emphasis on respect for others and the environment.
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Montessori Fact: The Montessori philosophy often includes ample outdoor learning.
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Montessori Fact: The Montessori philosophy is based on the ideas of Italian doctor and educator Dr. Maria Montessori.
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Montessori Fact: The Montessori philosophy uses real-life activities to teach practical skills.
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Montessori Fact: The Montessori method promotes the development of fine motor skills through activities like pouring and threading.
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Montessori Fact: Montessori spaces are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and comfortable.
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Montessori Fact: Montessori education focuses on developing the whole child, including emotional and social development.
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Montessori Fact: Montessori spaces use low shelves and child-sized furniture to make materials accessible to children.
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]
Montessori spaces are designed for independent, hands-on learning in a child-friendly environment. They encourage exploration and development across multiple areas of learning. Common features you might find in a Montessori learning environment include:
Child-sized furniture: Easy for kids to use.
Open shelves: Accessible learning materials on display.
Montessori Fact: Teachers in Montessori classrooms act as guides rather than traditional instructors.
#7
Montessori Fact: Montessori classrooms allow children to choose their activities from a range of options.
#8
Montessori Fact: Montessori materials are designed to be self-correcting to encourage independent problem-solving.
#9
Montessori Fact: Montessori classrooms often include areas for reading, math, science, and art.
#10
Montessori Fact: Montessori education aims to develop a child’s natural curiosity and love of learning.
#11
Montessori Fact: Montessori classrooms encourage collaborative learning and peer teaching.
#12
Montessori Fact: Students in Montessori classrooms are given uninterrupted blocks of work time.
#13
Montessori Fact: Montessori education places a strong emphasis on respect for others and the environment.
#14
Montessori Fact: Montessori classrooms often include outdoor learning environments.
Cozy Montessori Spaces
#15
Montessori Fact: Montessori education is based on the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori.
#16
Montessori Fact: Montessori classrooms use real-life activities to teach practical skills.
#17
Montessori Fact: The Montessori method promotes the development of fine motor skills through activities like pouring and threading.
#18
Montessori Fact: Montessori classrooms are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and comfortable.
#19
Montessori Fact: Montessori education focuses on developing the whole child, including emotional and social development.
#20
Montessori Fact: Montessori classrooms use low shelves and child-sized furniture to make materials accessible to children.
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]
Graduation rates are always a hot topic in higher education, but often for the wrong reason. To demonstrate, I offer my parents. Here is a portrait of Agnes and Mark, married May 4, 1946.
One night while I was talking to my brother, he asked, “Do you think mom was the way she was because dad was the way he was, or do you think dad was the way he was because mom was the way she was?” To which I replied, “yes.” My point, of course, is that in complex relationships, it’s always difficult–impossible, actually–to detangle cause and effect.
And, despite the Student Affairs perspective that graduation rates are a treatment effect, I maintain that they are actually a selection effect. As I’ve written about before, it’s pretty easy to predict a college’s six-year graduation rate if you know one data point: The mean SAT score of the incoming class. That’s because the SAT rolls a lot of predictive factors into one index number. These include academic preparation, parental attainment, ethnicity, and wealth, on the student side, and selectivity, on the college side.
When a college doesn’t have to–or chooses not to–take many risks in the admissions process, they tend to select those students who are more likely to graduate. That skews the incoming class wealthier (Asian and Caucasian populations have the highest income levels in America), higher ability (the SAT is a good proxy for some measure of academic achievement, and often measures academic opportunity), and second generation. And when you combine all those things–or you select so few poor students you can afford to fund them fully–guess what? Graduation rates go up.
If this doesn’t make any sense, read the Blueberry Speech. Or ask yourself this question: If 100 MIT students enrolled at your local community college, what percentage would graduate?
But graduation rates are still interesting to look at, once you have that context. The visualization below contains three views, using the tabs across the top. You’ll have to make a few clicks to get the information you need.
The first view (Single Group) starts with a randomly selected institution, Oklahoma State. Choose your institution of choice by clicking on the box and typing any part of the name, and selecting the institution.
On the yellow bars, you see the entering cohorts in yellow, and the number of graduating students on the blue bars. Note: The blue bars show graduates in the year shown (so, 4,755, which you can see by hovering over the bar) while the yellow bar shows the entering class from six years prior (7,406 in 2019, who entered in 2013).
The top row shows graduation rates at all institutions nationally, and the second row shows percentages for the selected institution. You can choose any single ethnicity at the top left, using the filter.
The second view (Single Institution) shows all ethnicities at a single institution. The randomly selected demonstration institution is Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota, but of course you can choose any institution in the data set. Highlight a single ethnic group using the highlight function (I know some people are frightened of interacting with these visualizations….you can’t break anything).
Note: I start with a minimum of 10 students in each year’s cohorts for the sake of clarity. Small schools in the Northeast, for instance, might enroll one Asian/Pacific Islander in their incoming class, each year, so the graduation rate could swing wildly from 0% to 100%. You can change this if you want to live dangerously, by pulling the slider downward.
The final view (Sectors) shows aggregates of institutional types. It starts with graduation rates for Hispanic/Latino students, but you can change it to any group you want.
Have fun learning about graduation rates. Just don’t assume they are mostly driven by what happens at the institution once the admissions office has its say.
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Good news: We have new IPEDS data on average net cost. Bad news: Because IPEDS is IPEDS, it’s data from the 2021-22 Academic Year.
This is pretty straightforward: Each dot represents a public institution, colored by region, showing the average net price for first-year students entering in that year. IPEDS breaks out average net price by income bands, so you can see what a family with income of $30,000 to $48,000 pays, for instance, by using the filters at right.
You can also limit the institutions displayed by using the top three filters: Doctoral institutions in the Far West, or in Illinois, for instance. If you want to see a specific institution highlighted, use that control. Just type part of the name of the institution, like this example, and make your selection:
Average net price shows The Total Cost of Attendance (COA), which includes tuition, room, board, books, transportation, and personal expenses, minus all grant aid. It does not include loans, but of course, loans can be used to cover part of the net price, along with other family resources.
This display is a box and whisker chart, and if you’re not familiar with the format, here is a quick primer:
For the sticklers, the median shown is unweighted.
As always, let me know what you see here that you find interesting or surprising.
A hidden talent is a skill or ability that you might have that isn’t known to many people, perhaps not even family or friends.
It’s often something people don’t expect from you because you haven’t had the opportunity to reveal it. As a result, your hidden talent might surprise people around you!
Hidden talents can range from artistic abilities to technical skills, or even unique problem-solving approaches that haven’t been shared with others. Don’t underestimate yourself – think about the things you’re good at, which you might not get credit for yet! Let’s explore some examples.
Hidden Talents Examples
1. Pattern Recognition
Many people have a knack for spotting patterns in data, behaviors, or their surroundings without realizing it. This talent allows individuals to quickly identify trends, solve problems, or predict outcomes. People with this ability often excel in fields like data analysis, art, or even storytelling, where seeing connections is key.
2. Empathic Listening
Some individuals are naturally good at understanding not just what someone is saying but also the emotions behind it. This goes beyond active listening—it’s about picking up on subtle cues like tone, body language, and unspoken emotions. Empathic listeners make others feel heard and validated, often becoming the go-to person for advice.
3. Intuitive Problem-Solving
Some people solve problems instinctively without knowing the formal processes behind it. They can think on their feet, using creativity and common sense to fix issues quickly. This talent often emerges in situations where there’s no clear solution, and their gut feeling leads them to the right answer.
4. Spatial Awareness
The ability to visualize how objects or shapes will fit into a space is a rare but valuable skill. It can be applied to fields like interior design, architecture, or even packing a car. People with strong spatial awareness can mentally manipulate objects and foresee how they’ll function in a given area.
5. Storytelling
Not everyone realizes they have the ability to capture an audience’s attention with a story, but this hidden talent is more common than we think. It’s not just about telling a tale; it’s about structuring information in a way that’s engaging, whether in writing, speech, or visuals.
6. Emotional Regulation
Some people have a natural ability to remain calm in stressful situations, managing their emotions effectively without suppressing them. This talent allows them to navigate difficult circumstances without becoming overwhelmed, making them great leaders, mediators, or caregivers.
7. Networking Without Effort
While many struggle with networking, some people effortlessly build connections wherever they go. This talent isn’t just about being extroverted—it’s about creating meaningful interactions and making people feel comfortable. These individuals excel in collaborative environments, even if they don’t realize the strength of their interpersonal skills.
Hidden Talents of Women
1. Multitasking
Many women are naturally adept at juggling multiple responsibilities simultaneously, from work tasks to managing household duties, social commitments, and family care. This ability to balance various roles often goes unnoticed because it’s seen as part of the routine, but it’s a significant hidden talent that requires focus and organization.
Women often possess strong emotional intelligence, being highly attuned to the emotions of others and navigating social interactions with empathy. This ability allows them to manage relationships effectively, diffuse conflicts, and offer emotional support, making them excellent friends, partners, and leaders.
3. Community Building
Women frequently excel in fostering community and bringing people together. Whether it’s organizing social groups, advocating for local causes, or building strong support networks, women have a hidden talent for connecting individuals and cultivating a sense of belonging and solidarity.
4. Adaptability
Women often demonstrate a remarkable ability to adapt to changing circumstances, whether it’s shifting between personal and professional roles or responding to unexpected life challenges. This hidden talent allows them to remain resilient and flexible, making them effective problem-solvers in dynamic environments.
5. Non-Verbal Communication
Many women have a keen sense of non-verbal communication, such as reading body language, facial expressions, and tone. This skill often gives them an intuitive understanding of what others are feeling or thinking without explicit communication, which can be particularly useful in navigating social and professional situations.
Women often have an eye for detail, whether in managing tasks, organizing events, or handling complex projects. This hidden talent ensures that things run smoothly, even when juggling a lot of moving parts. Their attention to detail ensures nothing is overlooked, which can be vital in both personal and professional life.
7. Conflict Mediation
Women often excel at mediating conflicts, whether between friends, family members, or colleagues. Their talent for empathizing with multiple perspectives and finding common ground allows them to diffuse tense situations and encourage constructive dialogue, often without drawing attention to their role in resolving issues.
Hidden Talents for Students
1. Time Management
Many students develop a hidden talent for managing their time effectively, balancing school, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, and social life. Even if they feel overwhelmed, their ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines is a valuable skill that often goes unnoticed.
2. Adaptability to New Technologies
Students today have a natural talent for quickly adapting to new technologies and digital platforms. Whether it’s learning new software, utilizing online tools for schoolwork, or staying connected through social media, their tech-savviness allows them to navigate digital environments effortlessly.
3. Peer Support
Many students have a hidden talent for providing emotional and academic support to their peers. Whether it’s tutoring a friend, offering advice, or simply being a good listener, students often build strong support networks without realizing the importance of their role in others’ success.
4. Creative Problem-Solving
Students frequently use creative problem-solving skills in projects, group work, or personal challenges. Whether it’s figuring out how to study more efficiently or finding innovative ways to complete assignments, their ability to think outside the box often goes unnoticed.
5. Self-Motivation
Many students develop the ability to self-motivate, pushing themselves to achieve goals without external pressure. This hidden talent comes into play when studying for exams, completing assignments, or pursuing personal projects, even when faced with distractions or fatigue.
6. Collaboration
Working in group projects, sports teams, or clubs, students often hone their ability to collaborate with others. This hidden talent helps them navigate different personalities and work styles, improving their communication and teamwork skills without being explicitly recognized.
7. Resilience
The ability to bounce back from failures or setbacks is a hidden talent that many students possess. Whether it’s dealing with a tough exam, rejection from a club, or personal challenges, their resilience helps them keep going and adapt to difficult situations. This quality is often overlooked but is crucial for long-term success.
Famous People’s Unusual Talents
1. Steve Jobs – Calligraphy
Before he became a tech icon, Steve Jobs took a calligraphy course in college, which he credited for influencing the aesthetic sense behind Apple’s typography and design. His hidden talent in understanding typefaces and design helped Apple stand out with sleek and user-friendly interfaces, from the early Mac computers to the iPhone.
2. Angelina Jolie – Knife Throwing
Angelina Jolie, known for her acting and humanitarian work, has a hidden talent for knife throwing. She developed this skill while training for action roles and has mentioned it in interviews, even showcasing it in some of her films. This surprising ability adds to her persona as someone who can embody fierce, action-packed roles effortlessly.
3. Neil deGrasse Tyson – Ballroom Dancing
Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson is well-known for making science accessible to the public, but his hidden talent is ballroom dancing. In college, he was a competitive dancer, excelling in multiple styles, including Latin and standard ballroom. His agility and rhythm on the dance floor contrast with his intellectual image.
4. Margaret Thatcher – Chemistry
The “Iron Lady” of British politics, Margaret Thatcher, had a background in chemistry. Before becoming the UK’s Prime Minister, she worked as a research chemist, contributing to the development of soft-serve ice cream. Her hidden talent in science was largely overshadowed by her political career, but it reveals a sharp analytical mind.
5. Harrison Ford – Carpentry
Before landing his role as Han Solo in Star Wars, Harrison Ford was a skilled carpenter. His hidden talent for woodworking led him to build furniture for famous directors and actors, which indirectly helped him network in Hollywood. His craftsmanship reflects his practical and hands-on nature outside of acting.
6. Bob Dylan – Iron Sculpting
Aside from his iconic music career, Bob Dylan has a hidden talent for sculpting with iron. He’s an accomplished metalworker and has showcased his sculptures in exhibitions. This talent allows him to express his creativity in a different medium, showing another side of his artistic persona.
7. Serena Williams – Nail Art
Tennis star Serena Williams has a lesser-known passion for nail art. She is a certified nail technician and has expressed her love for doing nails as a way to unwind. Her hidden talent showcases her meticulous attention to detail, which likely mirrors the focus and precision she brings to the tennis court.
The Full List of 101 Hidden Talents
Conclusion
Your hidden skill is yours and yours alone! It can be anything at all, but remember, be proud of your unique and deep down hidden abilities that others might not know about. Pick your moment to reveal it in a way that might surprise and delight your friends! For more about talents, read my full guide on what is a talent?
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]
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In partnership with Inside Higher Ed, Collegis surveyed 450 students to gauge the impact of higher education technology on both their learning experiences and opinions of the school. Higher ed leaders will want to read our report, “Tech Troubles: How Technology-Student Interactions Impact Retention,” to dive deeper into how technology environments can help (or hinder) the student journey.
Students raise high-stakes concerns
While our study indicates colleges and universities are succeeding in some aspects of technology usage (digital communications, for one), the results also exposed several areas where technology hurdles are damaging, or even disastrous, to the student experience:
Website application hurdles: A quarter of students report some level of difficulty.
No internet, no class? Technical issues cause distractions and lost class time, both on and off campus.
Retention at risk: Over 40% of students who experienced tech issues question whether to continue their education at the institution.
Plus! Included in the report are reactions to the findings from higher ed leaders. They share the top challenges their schools face in addressing the issues raised by students.
Download the report for summaries by topic, stand-out results from audience segments, charts that show the intensity of student sentiment, and recommendations for technology investments to improve student success.
