University researchers tell Hopkins board peer networks shape college applications and scholarship outcomes

Dr. Anoosha Nath, a researcher working with Hopkins Public Schools, told the board the district’s peer-network analysis shows information that flows through peer groups and school-run services strongly affects where seniors apply to college and whether they receive scholarships. The study links administrative records to a 2024 senior survey and finds students who took additional school services were more likely to apply to higher-quality colleges and 10 percentage points more likely to receive scholarships.

NUT GRAF: The research combines longitudinal student records and a 2024 senior survey to measure how school-provided information (college-prep courses, meetings with college representatives, or meetings with the college-and-career coordinator) — and indirect exposure to that information through peers — is associated with college quality and scholarship receipt. The team…