Factores que promueven la movilidad social ascendente en México: evidencia de Egresados Universitarios

Abstract

This study centers on upward educational social mobility in Mexico, utilizing evidence from the graduates of a private university in Mexico with over 50 years of existence, which enables an exploration of how higher education contributes to social and economic ascension. Through the analysis of a database collected during the university's 75th anniversary, including interviews with 17,896 alumni, this research evaluates the impact of various factors, including family environment, parental education, and the post-graduation labor and economic situation, on the social mobility of the graduates. By employing advanced machine learning methodologies, such as Random Forest and XGBoost, on a set of key variables, significant determinants in wage growth and the professional trajectories of the graduates are identified, offering an insight into the dynamics that influence their social mobility. The findings underscore the importance of geographic location, financial support during education, and family background in professional and salary success, emphasizing the necessity of educational and labor policies aimed at improving equity in opportunities for professional success. This study not only advances academic knowledge on social mobility and education but also sheds light on policy formulation in Mexico, contributing to the debate on the role of higher education in fostering a fairer and more equitable society.