Ten Reasons to Attend Community College

Attending community colleges is often considered a poor substitute for attending a four-year university. However, for many students, community college is a better choice. Here are 10 reasons to attend community college.

1. Cost. Community colleges are significantly less expensive than four-year schools. If you don't have the cash or can't get sufficient financial aid for a public or private university or prefer not to load up on student loans, community college may be a wise alternative financially. Also, if you attend a community college in or near your home town, you can save the cost of room and board by living at home.

2. Quality. Based on the theory that you get what you pay for, it may seem logical that the quality of education at a community college would be far below that of a four-year school. In fact, the quality of education at many community colleges is excellent. Before you choose a community college, do a little homework, and be sure that it is accredited. You can also check community college rankings compiled by Community College Week and Washington Monthly.

3. Interim Choice. If your grade point average or college admission test scores are less than stellar, starting your higher education at a community college can be an opportunity to develop study skills and to improve your academic record, enhancing your chances of transferring to a four-year school in the future.

4. Flexibility. Community colleges, which generally supplement daytime classes with weekend and nighttime classes, offer flexibility if you have work or family obligations that make a four-year school out of the question.

5. Alternative Credentials. If your career choice does not require a four-year degree, a community college that offers certifications or associate degrees in your field may be ideal for you.

6. Decision Making. If you are unsure about going to college, attending community college can help you make an informed decision by taking some college-level courses. Also, if you are uncertain about a college major, community college offers an economical and efficient way to try out a variety of subjects and figure out the right direction for you.

7. Higher Earnings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, attending college, even if you don't get a four-year degree, can boost your average annual earning power significantly.

8. Bridge to Your Dream School. A community college can be the path to the four-year school of your dreams. If you were not accepted at your dream school out of high school, a successful academic career at a community college can strengthen your resume and prepare you for a second, perhaps more successful application to your chosen four-year university as a transfer student.

9. More Personal Education Experience. Overall, class sizes are smaller at community colleges than at four-year schools, where some basic courses are packed with hundreds of students.

10. Academic Reentry Point. If you would like to return to school, but have been out of the classroom for an extended period of time and worry that you aren't ready for the academic rigors of a four-year university, community college can help you develop the study habits and obtain the academic foundation needed to excel.

Sources:

Allen Grove, collegeapps.about.com, Community College - 5 Good Reason to Attend Community College

www.cccapply.org, CCCAPPly - Colleges - Reasons to Attend Community College