Community college has been given such a terrible reputation. Every time someone asked me where I was going to college and found out that I was attending a community college, they would usually ask me questions such as: Why? Why not attend a four-year college? Did you not get accepted into the college you've applied to? Isn't that a waste of time and money? Are you just trying to boost your GPA up? Or, they would tell me: Community college classes are really easy. But despite all of the negative assumptions, I'm still proud to say - "I went to a community college." And here's why:
1. You get to save money
It is no secret that the tuition fee at a community college is way cheaper compared to a four-year college (especially a private college). You won't have to pay for dorms and meal plans. On top of that, community colleges offer financial aid and scholarships.
In short, it lessens your chances of having to get student loans. I mean, who in the world likes having loans to pay in the first place? I, personally, do not want to be paying my student loans until I become a senior citizen. Even if you do end up having loans from transferring to another college, at least you'll be able to pay it off in a few years.
2. Exploring your options
For students who are still undecided on their major, community college allows you to broaden your horizons. Explore and try classes that might interest you. Or, try taking a class that you're unfamiliar with. Who knows? Maybe you might end up loving it. Or hating it.
Some people, on the other hand, may be considering switching majors. And that's okay. Maybe it simply was not your calling.
What matters is that you're learning what's best for yourself.
3. Events with free food
When I attended my freshman orientation, there was one advice that stood out to me. And that was, "Always go to events that offer free food." At first, I thought it was the strangest advice anyone could ever give to a freshman. Weeks later, I've decided to give that advice a try. Next thing I knew, I was a member of the Student Honor's Council.
What I like most about these events is that you expect to just be there for their food but what you don't expect is that you're actually getting involved in the campus life.
4. Transitioning to a four-year college
I know people think that community college has "easy A classes." Some may be easy, but there are also classes that were definitely tough and challenging which has helped me prepare for a four-year institution's curriculum.
A couple of people have told me several times, "Don't go to a community college because your courses won't be credited." But I proved them wrong. The majority of my courses were credited. Before transferring to a four-year college, you need to make sure that your course would be credited. In order to do so, you have to talk to your academic adviser or someone from the institution you're transferring to.
Also, if your community college is hosting a college fair and a campus tour on a four-year institution that you're interested in, don't hesitate to attend it. It would be a great way to get to know the institution better.
5. You get to meet wonderful people
These are the types of people who would help you when you are in need - whether it be about academics or your personal life. Even though you may go your separate ways, they will always be there for you and support you along the way. They will always have a special place in your life.
