这代美国人，不相信「大学改变命运」了

Core Viewpoint - A recent poll indicates that 63% of American respondents believe that a four-year college degree is no longer worth the cost, reflecting a significant shift in attitudes towards higher education and its perceived value in changing one's life circumstances [1][3][4]. Group 1: Poll Results and Trends - NBC News conducted a poll revealing that 63% of registered voters view the value of a college degree pessimistically, no longer believing it justifies the high tuition costs [3]. - In 2013, 53% of respondents believed college was worth it, but this figure has dropped significantly over the years, with only 33% expected to find it worthwhile by 2025, marking a 20% decline over 12 years [9]. - The perception of college value has shifted across political lines, with only 22% of Republicans now believing college is worth it, down from 55% in 2013 [10][13]. Group 2: Factors Influencing Perception - Rising tuition costs and student debt are cited as primary reasons for the declining value of a four-year degree, with many graduates finding themselves in jobs that do not require a degree [8][10]. - The emergence of AI and changing job market demands have led to a reevaluation of the necessity of a college degree for many professions, particularly in technical fields [8][16]. - The belief that a college degree guarantees a better life is increasingly viewed as uncertain, with many graduates struggling to find jobs that match their qualifications [9][10]. Group 3: Changing Educational Choices - There is a growing trend towards vocational and technical education as students seek quicker paths to employment, reflecting a more pragmatic approach to education [17]. - Graduates are increasingly considering the return on investment of their degrees, with STEM fields being prioritized over liberal arts due to higher earning potential [17][19]. - The perception of a degree as a "golden ticket" is fading, leading to a more critical evaluation of the costs versus benefits of higher education [14][16].