Kurt Metzger, research director for the Center for Urban Studies, says data indicates Michigan students have yet to respond significantly to the higher education message. \"If you look at our youngest adult populations - people between 25 and 35 years old - you see that even they are not (obtaining degrees) at the rates we\'d like to see,\" he argues. \"We\'re still not getting it.\" Metzger says further challenging the state is demographic data showing that many local college graduates pursue career opportunities in other states. High unemployment rates, lack of vibrant cultural and intellectual centers and minimal success in attracting new industry and jobs are at play.