Nolan Finley, Detroit News editorial page editor, opines about Michigan's focus on preparing high school graduates for higher education. The state recently took a big step in addressing the preparation problem by adopting a tough new curriculum for high school students. However, according to Finley, two other important factors need to be considered - cost and focus. Only 54 percent of those who start college will graduate within six years. "The high college drop-out rate contributes to the state\'s shameful education deficit, and there are lots of reasons for it." Many students don\'t have a clue why they\'re in college; others would like to stay till graduation but can\'t afford the ever-rising tuition, and some lack the remedial skills needed to master the rigors of college courses. Finley concludes that parents, high schools and colleges must be more aggressive in directing children toward specific careers, matching aptitude and interests with real opportunities in the job market. Internships and job shadowing must be a bigger part of the high school schedule. Much more energy and resources should be targeted at making sure they stay in college long enough to earn a diploma," Finley writes.