Study Uncovers Surprising COVID-19 Rates on MBA Campuses

Last Updated on August 31, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: Study Challenges Assumption: Higher COVID Infection Rates Found in Wealthier College Communities

In a surprising turn of events, a recent scientific study conducted by Sophia Zacher ’21 and Lewis Davis has revealed that COVID infection rates are actually higher in wealthier college communities, contradicting the common belief that rates are higher in poorer areas. The findings of this study, which were published in the journal “My MBA Career,” have sparked a new conversation about the impact of affluence on the spread of the virus.

Zacher, Davis, and their colleague Stephen Schmidt analyzed extensive data from 1,069 U.S. schools, collected by The New York Times during the 2020-21 academic year. To further support their study, they also gathered relevant information from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), a major source that offers comparative data on educational institutions in the United States. The team analyzed various factors such as tuition rates, enrollment, endowment per student, and infection rates.

Surprisingly, their analysis revealed a direct correlation between higher endowments per student, higher tuition rates, and greater COVID infection rates. It also indicated that more selective schools, deemed to be more prestigious, had higher illness rates. These findings challenge the preconceived notion that COVID infection rates are higher in poorer communities.

The implications of this discovery may have far-reaching consequences for public health strategies in higher education settings. While further research and analysis are needed to comprehend the underlying reasons behind these findings, it is clear that focusing solely on socio-economic factors may not be sufficient in controlling and preventing the spread of the virus within college communities.

This study brings to light the intersection of affluence, education, and health. It opens the door for future investigations and discussions on how socioeconomic status and institutional prestige can shape the dynamics of disease transmission. It also emphasizes the significance of understanding the unique challenges faced by colleges and universities, in order to effectively implement targeted public health measures.

As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this study serves as a reminder that assumptions and generalizations may not always hold true. The results of Zacher and Davis’ research prompt us to question established narratives, challenging us to dig deeper and explore the complex factors that contribute to the spread of the virus within different communities.

In conclusion, while COVID infection rates have been traditionally associated with poorer communities, this study sheds new light on the situation. With wealthier college communities experiencing higher infection rates, it is crucial that policymakers, educators, and health professionals reevaluate their strategies and adapt to the changing dynamics of the pandemic. By better understanding the implications of these findings, we can work towards implementing more effective public health measures that can protect students and staff in higher education settings.