6 answers
Shania
Student
1
Question
Asked
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Is it best to go to a four year or a 2 year collage ?
I don’t know which is better or if there even like the same , I just don’t want to get to a four year collage and feel stuck
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6 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1849
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Shania !
This is an interesting question and it seems as though you are concerned that you are thinking about the possibility of not liking the college that you choose. Being afraid of getting "stuck" can mean a lot of things, but hopefully I can give some advice that may alleviate your worry.
For a Bachelors Degree, some people attend a four year university the entire time. Some people go to a two year college and than to a four year college to get their Bachelors Degree. Other people take courses here and there at different colleges. This is all going to depend. It depends on what colleges are near you, if you plan to move to go to college and how you want to pace your college attendance. So your first decision is to establish all of that and than you can decide on which specific college(s) you have in mind. You will need to know this before making plans because if you want to go to a two year college and than transfer to a four year, not everything you take (courses) may be transferrable. In some cases, everything is transferrable, but it depends on the specific university, so you will need to know all of this so things go smoothly.
I'm not sure why you think you may get stuck at a four year university. To avoid this, go for an orientation at your intended college and make sure you are certain that you like it and it has a program that is acceptable to you. No one gets "stuck" at a college. You've paid for it. You can quit and transfer out any time you'd want. So if you think that starting and finishing at the four year college is what you really want to do, go for it. Also see if you could audit a couple of classes there to get a sense of the academic atmosphere. It's all going to depend on the particular college that you have in mind.
Community colleges are great also if you want to start out attending one and than transfer to a four year school. You will have the same demands as a four year college work wise, only the courses will be on a beginning tier so may not seem as intense as a four year college. Than again, this all depends on which college you go to and for what major. So it's all very conditional, but with specific information from the actual colleges, you will be able to make the right decision, but I wouldn't worry about being stuck because, in essence, you are the customer and can choose at any time what you want to do. I only advise not leaving until you finish all your courses in the semester before quitting the college.
You need to know that you are in the drivers' seat with this and you have options. Worrying a little about the college experience is natural but it's time to stop worrying and time to now realize that you are in charge of this and, as with other things in your life, you really do know what you want for your college experience. Once you take the time to gather the information and figure out the specific colleges involved and know what is and what isn't transferrable, than make the commitment to it and enjoy every minute !
I wish you all the best in choosing a college that you really love !
This is an interesting question and it seems as though you are concerned that you are thinking about the possibility of not liking the college that you choose. Being afraid of getting "stuck" can mean a lot of things, but hopefully I can give some advice that may alleviate your worry.
For a Bachelors Degree, some people attend a four year university the entire time. Some people go to a two year college and than to a four year college to get their Bachelors Degree. Other people take courses here and there at different colleges. This is all going to depend. It depends on what colleges are near you, if you plan to move to go to college and how you want to pace your college attendance. So your first decision is to establish all of that and than you can decide on which specific college(s) you have in mind. You will need to know this before making plans because if you want to go to a two year college and than transfer to a four year, not everything you take (courses) may be transferrable. In some cases, everything is transferrable, but it depends on the specific university, so you will need to know all of this so things go smoothly.
I'm not sure why you think you may get stuck at a four year university. To avoid this, go for an orientation at your intended college and make sure you are certain that you like it and it has a program that is acceptable to you. No one gets "stuck" at a college. You've paid for it. You can quit and transfer out any time you'd want. So if you think that starting and finishing at the four year college is what you really want to do, go for it. Also see if you could audit a couple of classes there to get a sense of the academic atmosphere. It's all going to depend on the particular college that you have in mind.
Community colleges are great also if you want to start out attending one and than transfer to a four year school. You will have the same demands as a four year college work wise, only the courses will be on a beginning tier so may not seem as intense as a four year college. Than again, this all depends on which college you go to and for what major. So it's all very conditional, but with specific information from the actual colleges, you will be able to make the right decision, but I wouldn't worry about being stuck because, in essence, you are the customer and can choose at any time what you want to do. I only advise not leaving until you finish all your courses in the semester before quitting the college.
You need to know that you are in the drivers' seat with this and you have options. Worrying a little about the college experience is natural but it's time to stop worrying and time to now realize that you are in charge of this and, as with other things in your life, you really do know what you want for your college experience. Once you take the time to gather the information and figure out the specific colleges involved and know what is and what isn't transferrable, than make the commitment to it and enjoy every minute !
I wish you all the best in choosing a college that you really love !
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Shania
I am glad to help out, Shania !
Michelle M.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6084
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi there, Shania!
As a student, Shania, you might find yourself at a crossroads, deciding between a four-year college and a two-year college. It's a big decision, and it's crucial to weigh your aspirations, interests, and financial circumstances before you make your choice. Here are some key points you might want to think about:
1. Time and Expense
Community colleges, also known as two-year colleges, are usually less costly and take two years to finish. This could be a fantastic choice for students looking to cut down on tuition and other costs. But remember, if you're thinking about transferring to a four-year college after getting your associate’s degree, you might end up spending more overall as you'll need to cover another two years of tuition and fees.
2. Range of Programs
Four-year colleges generally offer a broader array of programs and majors, including some that might not be found at two-year colleges. If you've got a particular major in mind, it's worth checking if it's available at both kinds of institutions.
3. Setting and Campus Experience
Two-year colleges are often nestled in smaller towns or suburban areas, while four-year colleges might be in larger cities. This can influence the overall vibe and campus life. Two-year colleges often provide a more cozy, tight-knit community.
4. Job Prospects
Both two-year and four-year colleges can open up great career paths, but the type of degree you get can make a difference. For instance, with an associate’s degree in a field like nursing or computer technology, you might find more job opportunities than with a degree in a less practical field.
5. Transfer Possibilities
If you're planning to shift to a four-year college after getting your associate’s degree, it's crucial to look into the transfer policies of the four-year colleges you're eyeing. Some might not accept credits from two-year colleges, so it's key to verify this before you enroll.
6. Your Personal Choices
In the end, choosing between a two-year and a four-year college boils down to your personal preferences and ambitions. If you're keen on saving money and prefer a more personal campus experience, a two-year college might be your best bet. If you're after a wider range of programs and a more diverse campus community, a four-year college might be more your style.
To sum up, choosing between a two-year and a four-year college is a personal decision that hinges on your unique situation and goals. It's vital to explore both types of institutions and consider factors like time, cost, program availability, location, career prospects, transfer possibilities, and personal preferences before making a decision.
For more insights, you might want to check out:
- "The Pros and Cons of Attending a 2-Year vs. 4-Year College" by The Balance Careers
- "2-Year vs. 4-Year Colleges: Which is Right for You?" by U.S. News & World Report
- "What’s the Difference Between a 2-Year and 4-Year College?" by Forbes
And remember, Shania, there's no harm in asking for help. You can always seek guidance through prayer.
Best wishes,
James.
As a student, Shania, you might find yourself at a crossroads, deciding between a four-year college and a two-year college. It's a big decision, and it's crucial to weigh your aspirations, interests, and financial circumstances before you make your choice. Here are some key points you might want to think about:
1. Time and Expense
Community colleges, also known as two-year colleges, are usually less costly and take two years to finish. This could be a fantastic choice for students looking to cut down on tuition and other costs. But remember, if you're thinking about transferring to a four-year college after getting your associate’s degree, you might end up spending more overall as you'll need to cover another two years of tuition and fees.
2. Range of Programs
Four-year colleges generally offer a broader array of programs and majors, including some that might not be found at two-year colleges. If you've got a particular major in mind, it's worth checking if it's available at both kinds of institutions.
3. Setting and Campus Experience
Two-year colleges are often nestled in smaller towns or suburban areas, while four-year colleges might be in larger cities. This can influence the overall vibe and campus life. Two-year colleges often provide a more cozy, tight-knit community.
4. Job Prospects
Both two-year and four-year colleges can open up great career paths, but the type of degree you get can make a difference. For instance, with an associate’s degree in a field like nursing or computer technology, you might find more job opportunities than with a degree in a less practical field.
5. Transfer Possibilities
If you're planning to shift to a four-year college after getting your associate’s degree, it's crucial to look into the transfer policies of the four-year colleges you're eyeing. Some might not accept credits from two-year colleges, so it's key to verify this before you enroll.
6. Your Personal Choices
In the end, choosing between a two-year and a four-year college boils down to your personal preferences and ambitions. If you're keen on saving money and prefer a more personal campus experience, a two-year college might be your best bet. If you're after a wider range of programs and a more diverse campus community, a four-year college might be more your style.
To sum up, choosing between a two-year and a four-year college is a personal decision that hinges on your unique situation and goals. It's vital to explore both types of institutions and consider factors like time, cost, program availability, location, career prospects, transfer possibilities, and personal preferences before making a decision.
For more insights, you might want to check out:
- "The Pros and Cons of Attending a 2-Year vs. 4-Year College" by The Balance Careers
- "2-Year vs. 4-Year Colleges: Which is Right for You?" by U.S. News & World Report
- "What’s the Difference Between a 2-Year and 4-Year College?" by Forbes
And remember, Shania, there's no harm in asking for help. You can always seek guidance through prayer.
Best wishes,
James.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Shania
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
330
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Shania:
Two Year Community Colleges are more affordable than the the first two years at a Four Year College or University. At the Two Year Community College, one can complete most of the General Elective Courses that are required at a Four Year College or University. It will be less expensive. Class sizes are smaller and the ratio of a professor to students are more favorable. A student can get more attention and help on an individual basis in a smaller classroom of 30 students or less as compared at a large Four Year College or University where the average class size can be 200+ students in a lecture hall or auditorium.
One can earn an Associates Degree at a Two Year Community College. Please keep in mind to make sure that all of the General Elective Courses and Prerequisite Courses are transferrable to a Four Year College or University. The college course credits will count towards the Bachelors Degree and graduation.
General Elective Courses are required at all Four Year Colleges or Universities. These courses include subjects such as English, Math, Science and Physical Education which help one to perform in upper class levels, especially within one's major. They also act as a barometer to assist and guide one's educational pathway at the college or university. Again, to save money on a college education, one can attend a Two Year Community College to complete the General Elective Courses and Prerequisite Courses.
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Also, it will be in your best interest to visit the campuses of the potential colleges or universities where you may earn your Associate Degree and /or your Bachelors Degree. Campus tours are offered. This will provide you with the opportunity to visit different departments of interested degrees to pursue and to major in and to ask questions of the professors. One can go to the local dining hall to have a meal. The Student Center will allow one to interact with current students; ask questions; learn about campus activities, sports and clubs; learn about the Career Placement Center for internships, careers and companies; etc.; etc. Visiting the campus at a college or university will provide exposure and experience what college life has to offer.
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your higher educational journey!
Two Year Community Colleges are more affordable than the the first two years at a Four Year College or University. At the Two Year Community College, one can complete most of the General Elective Courses that are required at a Four Year College or University. It will be less expensive. Class sizes are smaller and the ratio of a professor to students are more favorable. A student can get more attention and help on an individual basis in a smaller classroom of 30 students or less as compared at a large Four Year College or University where the average class size can be 200+ students in a lecture hall or auditorium.
One can earn an Associates Degree at a Two Year Community College. Please keep in mind to make sure that all of the General Elective Courses and Prerequisite Courses are transferrable to a Four Year College or University. The college course credits will count towards the Bachelors Degree and graduation.
General Elective Courses are required at all Four Year Colleges or Universities. These courses include subjects such as English, Math, Science and Physical Education which help one to perform in upper class levels, especially within one's major. They also act as a barometer to assist and guide one's educational pathway at the college or university. Again, to save money on a college education, one can attend a Two Year Community College to complete the General Elective Courses and Prerequisite Courses.
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
Also, it will be in your best interest to visit the campuses of the potential colleges or universities where you may earn your Associate Degree and /or your Bachelors Degree. Campus tours are offered. This will provide you with the opportunity to visit different departments of interested degrees to pursue and to major in and to ask questions of the professors. One can go to the local dining hall to have a meal. The Student Center will allow one to interact with current students; ask questions; learn about campus activities, sports and clubs; learn about the Career Placement Center for internships, careers and companies; etc.; etc. Visiting the campus at a college or university will provide exposure and experience what college life has to offer.
Scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. Scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Hope this helps and best wishes for your higher educational journey!
Michael, thank you!
Shania
Laura Allen
Physical Therapist
2
Answers
Wilmington, North Carolina
Updated
Laura’s Answer
As long as all your classes will transfer to the four year university that you intend to go to then it can be a good thing to start at a community college or two year college and then transfer in your junior year. The cost of schools tuition currently is through the roof and students are coming out with tons of debt that they owe on student loans. Going to a local community college or two-year school can help keep your costs down of what you owe and therefore when you graduate from your 4 years your overall debt will be lower. It will make a huge difference in the years to come after you graduate having a lower student loan debt to pay back than if you go straight to a four-year University where the tuition is more expensive. The other added benefit of going to community college first is that you have family support while you are going through the transition from high school to college which can be stressful.
But if money is not an object it is more convenient to go right to the four-year University because then you don't have to go through the transfer process and application process in your junior year to apply to get into the four year university and making sure all your classes transfer for the program you want to go into. Also if for some reason you need to leave your household as soon as possible for whatever reason this is a better option.
But if money is not an object it is more convenient to go right to the four-year University because then you don't have to go through the transfer process and application process in your junior year to apply to get into the four year university and making sure all your classes transfer for the program you want to go into. Also if for some reason you need to leave your household as soon as possible for whatever reason this is a better option.
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
454
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hello Shania,
Universities, which typically span over four years, are a hub of social experiences. These often include the excitement of dorm living and off-campus accommodations. Plus, they provide a wide array of opportunities in the arts, athletics, and a variety of clubs and organizations that cater to your personal interests.
On the other hand, two-year colleges offer a more intimate learning environment with smaller class sizes. They also tend to be more adaptable, allowing you to balance work and personal life while you pursue your educational aspirations.
Upgrading from an associate degree to a bachelor's degree can be a wise move. Many employers find a bachelor's degree more attractive, and it's often a prerequisite for many job opportunities.
Ultimately, the choice really boils down to your personal preferences and what you feel you can handle. Wishing you all the best on this educational journey. Remember, one choice isn't necessarily superior to the other.
Best wishes,
Universities, which typically span over four years, are a hub of social experiences. These often include the excitement of dorm living and off-campus accommodations. Plus, they provide a wide array of opportunities in the arts, athletics, and a variety of clubs and organizations that cater to your personal interests.
On the other hand, two-year colleges offer a more intimate learning environment with smaller class sizes. They also tend to be more adaptable, allowing you to balance work and personal life while you pursue your educational aspirations.
Upgrading from an associate degree to a bachelor's degree can be a wise move. Many employers find a bachelor's degree more attractive, and it's often a prerequisite for many job opportunities.
Ultimately, the choice really boils down to your personal preferences and what you feel you can handle. Wishing you all the best on this educational journey. Remember, one choice isn't necessarily superior to the other.
Best wishes,
Thank you so much, Aisha!
Shania
Robin Harris
Accountant
3
Answers
Bedford Hills, New York
Updated
Robin’s Answer
I think there are benefits to both 2 year and 4 year college. If you don't know what you want to major, starting at a 2 year school, like a community college, will most likely cost less than a 4 year college. And once you get your Associates degree, you can then decide to transfer to a 4 year school or enter the workforce. However, if you are interested in a specific career that requires a 4 year degree, starting at a 4 year school would save you the time, effort and cost of having to apply to both 2yr and 4 year schools. If you start at a 4 year and don't like it, there is always the option of transferring. Either way, there will always be the option to transfer if you are unhappy. Best of luck to you.
I appreciate your support, Robin
Shania