Just think about all the time you’re spending on researching colleges, applying for admission, and doing everything it takes to get accepted. Then once you get there and classes start, there’s a chance you could become overwhelmed by the stress of school and want to call it quits.

We don’t want you to drop out, and if you’re not even in college yet or have just started your studies, an interesting new report by Public Agenda (created for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) sheds some light on the reasons that students call it quits at college. The “With Their Whole Lives Ahead of Them” study has asked for American’s views on completing college.

Knowing that these issues are facing students could help you make it through to graduate from college if you are dealing with these difficulties, too.

Finding 1: Young people who fail to finish college are often going it alone financially. They’re essentially putting themselves through school.

Take it to heart: Be proud that even though you are responsible for paying for school, you have made a commitment to college. The cost of college is rising, which can be frustrating if you are having to take out larger loans, but use spare time during holidays and breaks to search for and apply for scholarships. That could give you the added financial help to survive school.

Finding 2: Most students leave college because they are working to support themselves and/or a family at the same time. At some point, the stress of work and study just becomes too difficult.

Take it to heart: The balance between school and work does make it tough to enjoy what should be one of the best times of your life. Look for a job that connects in some way to your future career. That way, it will not only pay the bills, but give you crucial experience that could land you a better-paying job in your field after graduation.

Finding 3: Students who leave college realize that a diploma is an asset, but they may not fully recognize the impact dropping out of school will have on their future.

Take it to heart: Look down the road, and you’ll find that most employers require a college degree from their job candidates. Making the decision to leave college may lessen the pain in the short term, but it will impact your ability to find meaningful employment in the long term. Even though you think opportunities will exist to try college again, it could be even tougher for financial and personal reasons in the future.

–Lori Johnston