The most complete measures of inequality consider the full life-course of an individual, from childhood to adulthood, and from adulthood to old age. One determinant of life outcomes is education, particularly whether one has obtained a college degree. Research has shown clear benefits of earning a diploma. But many qualified young people do not pursue one. Why?

Today on the show, we present two conversations that address this question. First, host Steven Durlauf is joined by Salvador Navarro, professor of economics at the University of Western Ontario and a Stone Center affiliate. They discuss his research into the complex set of factors that lead some students not to attend college. Then, Steven is joined by Stephen Trejo, a professor of economics at the University of Texas at Austin and a leading expert on the economic standing of Hispanic Americans. They discuss why college graduation rates have remained stubbornly low among the children and grandchildren of Hispanic immigrants.