Before coming to Rowan University, I went to Rowan College at Gloucester County (RCGC), a community college. I heard it all when I first decided to go to RCGC. I had friends, peers, and even teachers put me down for choosing a community college rather than a four-year university.

I always knew I wanted to go to RCGC first. I knew financially it would be the best thing for me, and geographically it was ideal; I was only 10 minutes from both my home and work. So, on College Decision Day for my high school, I proudly wore a Rowan College shirt.

Unfortunately, I will never forget what my teacher said that day. She was replying to a classmate of mine who asked if I was going to RCGC, and this teacher said, "It's only community college. It's not like she's doing anything special."

I was so hurt by this. I couldn't believe that a teacher would put down someone who decided to go to college regardless of where they were going.

But this wasn't this only thing that was said to me about community college. A former friend of mine and I decided to catch up and get coffee during winter break. She went to a university in Philly and I was at RCGC. This friend was complaining about how hard college was for her, so I agreed with her and told her that I was having a tough time, too.

She looked me dead in the eye and told me that I can't be having a hard time because I am only going to community college. She said, "It's not that hard. You are obviously not trying hard enough."

Hearing those ignorant statements from people I thought were supposed to help me succeed was so disappointing.

Thankfully, those comments never made me think of my education as anything less. I am proud to say I started my college career at a community college. This is because my community college was the best! Community college gave me the chance to take the general education classes I needed at a fraction of the cost, as well as get an education and still be able to spend time with my family.

My community college had the best professors who not only helped the students academically but guided us past the stigma of going to a community college.

RCGC is also where I made the closest friends I have ever had. Community college friends are different. We all share this desire to want to prove that we are more than just where we started our college journey. Community college friends are also great because we all live near each other, so during winter/summer break, no one was flying back home.

I love Rowan University, but I will always stand by my decision about going to RCGC first.

I do not know why there is a stigma with going to a community college. I had the best time when I was there and I would not trade it for anything. So, if you are thinking about going to community college, go for it! Do not let the ignorance of people stop you from going.

Because once you're out in the real world with your real adult job, it won't matter if you started at community college or if you started at a four-year university.