ABSTRACT
This chapter delves into how the experiences of students in rural communities, which often differ greatly from their suburban and urban counterparts, influence their education and opportunities after graduation. The author explores how economic pressures and rural workforce needs shape perceptions of higher education, how a lack of interaction with those outside rural communities’ influences perceptions of diversity, difficulties in teacher recruitment and retention, mental health issues, and the opioid epidemic. She concludes by offering solutions that can be implemented to close the opportunity gap between rural students and their suburban and urban peers, including increased partnerships with outside organizations and more equitable school funding formulas.
