If you are someone who wants to save money or be closer to home, then community college might be for you! For many years leading up to now, community colleges have been looked down upon when compared to the typical four year university. Yet as community college gains more popularity, students have begun to realize that it offers more pros than cons. Mrs. Ryan, one of the librarians at Hall High School, made the point that “You’re still at college, you’re still learning.”

Attending a community college will earn you an associates degree and a solid education, which can be applied to numerous jobs in the workforce. If you need a higher degree for the type of career you’re pursuing, you can further your education after you graduate or choose to transfer to a larger university.  Mrs. Gasiewski, a counselor at Hall High School, said that “Community college is a great option for students who are undecided on what they want to study. You can get your core classes completed at community college and then transfer to a different college in order to major in what you are passionate about.” Either way you are still earning a degree and putting extra money in your pocket!

According to the Community College Research Center, about 36% of undergraduate students attend a community college each year. While this is still not a huge percentage, it has increased greatly from what it used to be. The Community Colleges for International Development states that in 2016, 6.9 million students were enrolled in community colleges. One of the best things about community colleges is that a majority of them are open admission, so anyone who wishes to go can attend.

CCID also says  44% of low-income students attend community colleges and the average tuition is only $3,750, a stunningly smaller price than most other colleges will charge  according to the American Association of Community Colleges. This proves that even people who come from lower income families can still receive a post-secondary education at a much more affordable cost. Multiple people agree that community colleges are much more affordable than a private or state college.  Math teacher Ms. Ranieri states; “It’s great when you’re young and want to save money.”

Community college are another way to develop independence at a slower pace. It can provide aid to those that feel overwhelmed about being alone like at a university. Many people still haven’t settled on a career path, so this gives them a chance to explore their options. Simply, community college is a less intense and demanding option for the postsecondary world. For instance, you will be given more liberty with classes and you’re not required to be on a campus all the time.

Community college also offers a second academic chance for someone who feels unsatisfied with their high school grades or GPA. We asked Ms. Ranieri, a math teacher here at school, about her perspective on community colleges. She said they are “great if you want to improve your grades.” One could even go to community college to raise their grades and then transfer to another school.

Moreover, the positives to community college far outweigh the negatives. It is an ideal way to receive an education, without breaking the bank while doing so. If you are in search of freedom, more money in your pocket, and time to think about your career, community college is undoubtedly the best option for you.

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