Monday, November 30, 2009

Are Community Colleges Worth It?

Due to the economy, community colleges are starting to appear as a favorable choice over a four year university. High school seniors attending community college after graduating can save money and have direct admittance into a four year university. The problem, however, is that the transition from community college to a university may not be as smooth. For example, some community college credits may not transfer over to the four-year college. Thus, there might be a delay in graduating within four years from college (community and four-year college included). In addition, there is a dramatic level of change within the classroom from a community college to a four year university. Since community colleges can have larger classes, students receive less individual attention. Yet in a four year university, a student’s work can undergo more criticism; thus resulting in a lower grade. Therefore, if a student received straight A’s in community college, getting lower grades can be a shock. Besides academics, the social aspect of community college to four year university has its drawbacks. Given that the student will be transferring as a third year, it is difficult to “fit in” since the other students have established their social groups.

Still, with all these obstacles, there are solutions. For any high school senior enrolling into community college before transferring, remember to check what classes transfer to the desired four year university. Prepare yourself for the academic and social changes when first attending the four year university. Finally, take advantage of opportunities at the community college and four year university—school is what you make out of it.

Adrienne Kwan
Social Media Director
University Advisors

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