Dr. Trolian’s research focuses on the educational experiences that influence college choice and college outcomes, with an emphasis on two primary areas: students’ higher education experiences and outcomes, and the influence of K-12 experiences on students’ college choice decisions and experiences in higher education. Her recent work has investigated the relationship between student-faculty interactions and college outcomes and the influence of students’ high school experiences on their aspirations to earn a college degree. She has earned a bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University in Sociology, a master’s from Bowling Green State University in College Student Personnel, a master’s from the University of Iowa in Sociology, and a doctorate from the University of Iowa in Higher Education and Student Affairs.