What Attending A Community College Can Do For You
What Attending A Community College Can Do For You
There are many pros and cons of attending a community college, and it is a very personal decision. Community college may not be the right step for all high school students, but there are several things that a community college can do for you depending on your circumstances.
The benefits of community college with their correlating circumstances are below.
1. Schedule classes around parenthood or a full-time job.
The flexibility of class schedules is a common reason why to attend a community college. Young parents and those who must work a full-time job are restricted to night classes. Community colleges offer more flexible class schedules with night and weekend classes available.
2. Complete your degree faster.
Because community colleges are more accessible, it is easy to shave off a semester from the time to complete your 4-year degree. Those parenting or working full-time in addition to attending college are often restricted to night classes, and universities are more limited in these areas than 2-year colleges. Smart community college students will squeeze in as many courses as possible so that they can compensate for the decreased course load at a 4-year institution.
3. Decrease the cost of your degree.
Most community colleges keep tuition and fees affordable for the community. Public 2-year colleges generally keep tuition low enough to be covered by a Pell Grant. The cost per credit hour at a community college vs a 4-year university is significant. Taking as many courses as possible at the community college decreases the overall cost of a college degree.
Attending community college can also increase your scholarship opportunities. The NSHSS Community College or Trade School program offers scholarships specifically for 2-year colleges and trade schools.
4. Explore courses and choose a major.
Still not sure what you want to be when you grow up? Community colleges allow you to explore courses before choosing a major for your 4-year degree. A two-year general education degree can be used to transfer as a junior into most four-year institutions regardless of major. You can also take advantage of summer classes to explore subjects not related to your major.
5. Increase earning power while finishing your degree.
There is no doubt that a 2-year degree carries more weight than a high school diploma in today’s job market. This is important if you are partially or wholly supporting a household or if you want to decrease the amount of debt incurred to earn your degree.
6. Overcome obstacles to acceptance at a 4-year college.
There are many situations in which a student’s academics may not be sufficient to gain acceptance into a good 4-year college. This is one of the most important tips for homeschooled students. Students homeschooled through high school often find it difficult to find a 4-year college that will accept them. Community college courses document your academic capabilities to make you a more favorable prospect for admissions officers.
In addition, students returning to college after a gap increase their chances of admission to their university of choice by attending a community college first. Earning a 2-year degree prior to applying to a 4-year institution shows the university that you are taking your education seriously and are likely to complete your degree program.
Attending a community college offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance a student's educational and career journey. Firstly, community colleges provide an accessible and cost-effective avenue for pursuing higher education. With lower tuition fees and the option to commute from home, students can avoid the financial burden of four-year universities, reducing the need for extensive student loans. This financial flexibility allows students to explore different academic paths without compromising their financial stability. Furthermore, community colleges often maintain smaller class sizes, fostering a more personalized learning environment where students can build stronger relationships with instructors. This close interaction facilitates active participation, individualized support, and a greater opportunity for academic success.
Community colleges serve as a valuable stepping stone towards higher education or career goals. They offer a diverse range of programs and certificates, enabling students to explore various fields and discover their passions before committing to a specific career trajectory. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals unsure of their academic direction, as it allows them to test the waters without the immense pressure of a full university commitment. Additionally, community colleges often collaborate with local industries and businesses, ensuring that their curriculum aligns with the skills and knowledge demanded by the job market. This practical focus equips students with relevant skills, increasing their employability and readiness for the workforce upon completion of their studies. In these ways, community colleges play a pivotal role in supporting students' academic, financial, and professional aspirations.