In 1992, the dropout rate in America's colleges was almost twenty-four percent!  Therefore meaning that nearly one out of every five students that head off to college in the fall, drop out by the first semester.  In addition, about one out of every three remaining students do not return for their second year.  This statistic may seem outrageous, however, it is true.  Furthermore, a study has shown that if the dropout rate continues at its current pace, it will reach thirty percent by the turn of the century.  Although the reasons, or excuses, for dropping out are endless, the majority of dropouts can be linked to the following:  home sickness, environment, and cost.
	The first cause, home sickness, is not a big problem for most.  However, there are many teenagers that have never been out of their state, and in few instances, out of their city.  For these select few, it is extremely hard for them to leave.  The first day of college can be the hardest.  In particular, registering for classes.  So many people are all trying to do the same thing at once.  For some, this can be enough to walk to the car and go home.  However, most will make it through this part of their new life.  Usually the one thing that will really bother a person, is living in a small room, with at least one other person, sometimes two.  Often, living with strangers will make a person uncomfortable, and wishing they were back home.  This is when many will give up, and go back home.
	The next cause being the surrounding environment.  For new students that are not used to freedom, it can be hard to understand that they now have to make their own decisions.  To illustrate, a new student may see that alcohol is relatively easy to obtain.  Thus resulting in a constant hangover, and lack of study.  On contrary, the environment may be considered boring.  In other words, a student may try to "create" excitement by doing things that annoy people from the community.  For instance, constant honking, loud music, and  miscellaneous tricks are just a few of the many. 
The last cause is cost.  The majority of students will be expected to pay for college themselves.  For this reason, about fifteen percent of students will drop out.  Most are not ready to handle the responsibility of handling all of their finances.  In a new place, it can be difficult to obtain a job immediately.  Therefore, most will go home, trying to earn money to return the following year.  On the other hand, students may think they are prepared, but have no idea of the cost of living in America.  Including the cost of books, food, and of course spending money.  They will see that their standard of living declines greatly.  Many can't handle this, and as a result they dropout mainly because they want a better living.  Also, let us not forget the individuals that think college is a giant beer party.
In short, today's dropout rate can be linked to one word, "unprepared".  There is no excuse to dropout of college.  It is so easy to do, and takes so long to forget.  Almost every dropout will regret the fact that seventy-five percent of people their age have a better education, a better job, and are living a better life.  College is a big step in life, and if the proper preparations are made, anyone can finish college.  If they want it!