A study of underlying variables affecting aspirations of rural adolescents

Aspirations are comprised of two major components--inspiration and ambition. Ambitions represents the ability to look ahead and invest in the future. Inspiration can be described as the ability to invest the time, energy, and effort to reach those ambitions. Variables such as how and why students spend their time illustrate the dynamics of these two components. The data in this report are based on the responses to the Aspirations Survey of 2,677 eighth- to twelfth-grade students from seven rural schools in Maine. The data suggest that many students have no understanding of why they engage in certain activities. If students are to be responsible for their education and more importantly for themselves, they must see purpose in their pursuits.