While many high school students strive to get into an Ivy League school, or at least the best instate school to which they can be admitted, the community college has become the backup or “Plan B” for many post-secondary education endeavors. The truth is, though, that community college may be a better option than expensive private schools, online for-profits, or flagship state schools for certain individuals. The most important thing to assess before choosing any school are your short and long term goals, educational needs to reach those goals, and time and financial commitment you wish to put forth. Below are a few categories of prospective student who should think long and hard about the community college option, as it may save you time, money, and from hardships in the long run.
The High School Underachiever
If you are that smart kid that was just too lazy to be a good student in high school, the community college is an ideal way to get a second chance. Your standardized test scores were probably good enough on their own to get you into a decent school, but your poor grades will keep you from getting into an elite institution where you probably belong. Community college gives you a great opportunity to put together a year or two of straight A’s before reapplying to a school better fit for your true aptitude. Most elite institutions will take a number of sophomore and junior transfers, especially if you can highlight your new academic focus in your application essays. Don’t settle for a lesser institution simply because you can start there your freshman year. A degree from an elite college is the same for a two year attendee as it is for a four year veteran, no asterisks and no stigma.
Some of us just take a little longer to get motivated.
The Financially Strapped
Sure the government will give you financial aid and you can take out loans to finance your education. But is this really the best option for you long term? For some, adding another $60K to $120K in debt is probably not the right financial choice, even if you don’t have to start paying it back until after school. If you want to be an IT technician, a paralegal, nurse or achieve a number of other careers where an associates degree in a specified field can prepare you sufficiently, blowing four years of financial aid money on a traditional college is probably not your best choice. Ask yourself if you really need those sociology, anthropology, and existential philosophy courses you would be taking as electives in order to achieve the career you wish to pursue. If the answer is no, and you are not in a financial situation where campus living would come with minimal burden, you probably want to at least consider the junior college option.
Not Ready to Leave Home
There is no shame to be felt here. Whether you are needed at home to help care for your family, or you are simply not ready to leave and live on your own on a college campus, many individuals are constrained by their household situation. Perhaps you have a kid or are taking care of a sick parent. Or like many young adults, you may have anxiety when dealing with new environments and being away from home. Whatever your personal situation, community college may offer a smoother transition into the world of post-secondary education. If after two years you become more comfortable and are ready to better handle the stressors of living on your own, you can choose to transfer to the campus of your dreams. Whatever the scenario, don’t be embarrassed to do what is best for your well-being and that of your family. The community college option may indeed be just what the doctor ordered.
While choosing a college is a serious venture, remember that your selections are not binding. In other words, going with an affordable accredited junior college in the short run may be your best option for the long run, depending on your circumstances. Sure, its not for everyone, but keep the community college alternative in mind when weighing your decision.