About the Book:As the price of higher education escalates and the number of Americans seeking a college degree steadily rises, it is now more important then ever to think about higher education in a different way. In Bright College Years, Anne Matthews paints a provocative yet evenhanded portrait of the American campus. With each chapter dedicated to sections of the academic year, Matthews puts students, professors, and administrators under the magnifying glass. She conducts her investigation in four-year universities all across the country, from enormous state schools like the University of Texas to specialized colleges like Cal Tech. Bright College Years is a fascinating look at the changing face of the American university that will be of interest to prospective students, their parents, and anyone interested in higher education. “Matthews writes with sympathy and substantial understanding of the dilemmas colleges face these days.”–Tara Fitzpatrick, Chicago Tribune “A wide-ranging, well-written and lively account of contemporary academia.”–Christian Wiman, Dallas Morning News “Notable Book of the Year.” New York Times “An eye-opening, startling expos;. . . . Matthews’ energetic and well-written report provides a dismal yet concise insider portrait of college life.”–Booklist