Matus-Grossman, Lisa and Susan Gooden with Melissa Wavelet, Melisa Diaz, and Reishma Seupersad. 2002. <em>Opening Doors: Students&#8218; Perspectives on Juggling Work, Family, and College.</em> Manpower Demonstration Research Corporation (MDRC).<br />
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	The authors interviewed 131 low-wage workers who are either current or former community college students at six selected institutions, or potential students who have never attended a credit-granting program at a community college, to examine strategies of student retention and enrollment. Although most respondents believe that college education is valuable for career mobility, few of them actually enroll or stay in school. The authors argue that students face significant financial challenges in sustained enrollment, such as income reductions when work hours are reduced in favor of classes, the need to support children, and insufficient financial aid. Many participants describe barriers to receiving adequate financial aid, such as exceeding income thresholds, less than half-time attendance, previously defaulted student loans, and being on academic probation. In addition, college-going plans may conflict logistically with applying for safety net services such as Medicaid or food stamps. The authors also find that most students either are unaware that certain financial aid programs exist or track down the information by themselves. The article claims that the improvement of college-based services and support programs for low-wage workers would advance student enrollment and retention.