New surveys show students remain largely confident in college’s value even as public skepticism rises; large majorities of students say coursework prepares them for jobs and that their degree was worth the cost. The Lumina–Gallup report finds students believe faculty support diverse viewpoints and that most graduates secure good jobs within a year. At the same time, labor‑market data show computer science majors retain strong earning power: the National Association of Colleges and Employers projects starting salaries for CS graduates near $81,500 for the class of 2026, signaling sustained employer demand for technical talent. For admissions officers and career services leaders, the twin realities matter: students still expect career relevance while employers continue to compete for technical skills. Institutions should publicize outcomes transparently, align curricula with employer needs, and expand short‑cycle credentialing to capture those seeking rapid workforce entry.