What are the benefits of attending a community college first?
What are the pros and cons of attending a 2 year institution before transferring to a 4 year Vs attending a 4 year the entire time?
#community-college #university #college
5 answers
Alexandra’s Answer
It’s helpful because it saves money. Attending community college adds up to some serious savings, because the cost is much less than 4-year universities. I got an AA degree from my local community college before transferring to a University because my courses were about $500 less per semester EACH! I would recommend looking into what you want to get a bachelors degree in, checking into the University’s required coursework, and then asking an advisor at the community college help you find out what the exact transfer courses would be for the two schools. That way, you don’t end up taking unnecessary courses you don’t need. Some basic courses are almost universally transferable, like English Composition and Intro Psych, but you can still double check to make sure. Good luck!
Nicole’s Answer
One other benefit I can think of to attending a community college first is it could help you build up your routine. In my view, part of the success of any part of your developmental journey, including your college journey, is developing a routine. For example, how, when and where you study; how and when you find time to take a study break; how you guide yourself to complete your school tasks. All of these things can be improved and even mastered as you being your journey in a community college.
I agree on the feedback already provided regarding costs. With the benefit of a lower cost option, you can stress less about how much you are paying which could give you more time to focus on the steps and practices you can build to excel in your courses...and then take those practices to the next level once you begin your 4year journey.
Hope you find this helpful. Best of luck to you!
Rita’s Answer
Pros-It's less expensive and easier to so you save money.
Cons-Most first year students struggle and learn to adjust to school. If you switch during your 3rd year, you will be struggling a little later whereas others have already adjusted. Also, you will need to make new friends whereas the students there have already adjusted. Third, you will be blindly taking classes and not sure about professors etc whereas the students there could possibly ask other students which classes to take and avoid.
Peter’s Answer
a) What are you expecting to learn from the school?
b) How important is it for you to interact with people in your age group?
c) How do you manage your time and resources, and can you afford the tuition and other expenses?
When it comes to the community experience, factors (b) and (c) are particularly relevant.
In a community college setting, you may find that your opportunities for social interaction with fellow students (specifically those in your age group) are somewhat limited, as people may not be around as much due to varying class schedules, work or other commitments. On the other hand, attending a four-year institution may provide you with more chances to build meaningful connections with your peers through shared experiences, such as living on campus or participating in extracurricular activities.
In terms of time and financial resources, community colleges are generally more affordable than four-year institutions, which may make them an attractive option if you are concerned about the cost of education.
It's also worth noting that the curriculum for a specific course, such as English 1A, may not vary significantly between a two-year and a four-year institution. However, the level of competition and the expectations for competency in the subject matter may differ,
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal goals and expectations. For instance, are you seeking an environment where you can interact with intellectually challenging peers and find like-minded individuals? Or is your primary focus to learn and acquire knowledge with fewer concerns about the social aspects of the educational journey?
Matthew’s Answer
College is a very valuable experience and well worth the investment in both time and money. As you consider your choices, there are many factors that come into play. These can include: Grades and SAT/ACT Scores (used for college admissions/scholarships), financial situation, current and future cultures, family circumstance, etc.
A community college can, although not always, provide a student with the opportunity for a lower cost path for some of the required courses needed for a degree. This is due to a lower per credit hour fee and, depending on location, ability to live at home. Additionally, if in your local community, it may have shared values and cultural aspects for which you are familiar. Some of the benefits need to be validated, especially if you plan to transfer later to a four year program. This includes ensuring the classes are accredited, meet the requirements of your degree, can be transferred in full to your new institution, and adequately prepare you for your next college's level of education.
A community college can also provide the benefit of getting one used to self-management and scheduling for university life. It introduces a student to a different way of life than high school, including schedules, diverse people, financial requirements and work/activities.
If you decide to go to a community college first and then transfer, make sure to review a few other potential impacts. Are you passing up a scholarship/financial aid at the four year institution that may not be available to a transfer, but only to an incoming freshman? What are the transfer rules regarding timing, course work, admissions? How many hours must be completed at the four year institution to earn a degree?
For more information, I recommend doing a search for articles as well. Here is one that also captures some of what I shared from my personal experiences. https://www.scholarships.com/resources/college-prep/choosing-the-right-school/the-pros-and-cons-of-community-colleges/
Matthew recommends the following next steps: