As high school graduations are vastly approaching all over the country, it makes me reflect on where I was one year ago, and made me want to share why community college was the best route for me, and all I was able to experience in my first year.
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| High School Graduation June 1, 2018 |
For me, senior year was stressful to say the least. Senior farewell, baccalaureate, scholarship applications, banquets, and exams were all coming up, and I felt as though I was drowning in deadlines. This was not including deciding where I wanted to spend the next years of my life and more importantly, what I wanted to do.
Where I live, our local community college is only a 10 minute drive. When I first made the decision in high school, I have to admit that I was a little embarrassed to say I was going to a community college (although now I realize how ignorant this statement is). In high school, I was an A-B student, BETA Club member, actively involved in numerous organizations, and took almost half of my classes as dual enrollment courses. My first impressions of community college were completely wrong. I didn't think that something so amazing could be sitting in my back yard. I had perceived the education to be second-rate to that of other local colleges or universities, and felt as though it really had nothing to offer, other than a cheap route to finish a two-year degree so I could get out of there quickly.
After graduating in only one year and looking back now at all I was able to experience and all of the opportunities community colleges offer, I realize how foolish and silly thinking of community college as second best truly sounds. Community college's often get a bad rap, but this once perceived notion is slowly fading. Here are a few of the numerous reasons I now stress on how beneficial community college can be.
1) Quality Education at an Affordable Cost
Although this may be a somewhat standard and expected response, community college's truly do offer a quality education at a very affordable cost. In fact, most students at my community college, Southwest Virginia Community College leave debt free. Many community colleges offer scholarships for specific program paths, non-traditional students, grade point average, and so much more. Cost was truly a driving force in choosing to go to Southwest, and is one of the top reasons I stress community college's importance to high school seniors, and even adults looking to get a degree.
2) Numerous Programs to Choose From
One of the most incredible things about community college is the multitude of pathways you can choose to go down. Whether you're looking for certifications, degrees, or even looking to take a class for personal enrichment, community college offer numerous classes and program opportunities to help you accomplish this.
3) Breathing Room & Flexibility
The third reason on my list is breathing room & flexibility. Community colleges often are able to offer flexible scheduling, night class opportunities, and online classes to help fit around your schedule. The number of classes you take and how, when, and where you take them, are completely up to you to decide and work with a counselor on. The often small class sizes of community college offer a personalized approach to subjects, and allow you to receive a more tailored, and one-on-one instruction where you can ask questions and receive help. Being close to home also allows for a gradual step into college life and experience.
4) Articulation Agreements & Transferring On
Many of the students I have met during my time at community college have said that this is not the end of their college careers. Many two-year schools like mine, offer "Articulation" or Transfer Agreements that allow either dual admission or the ability to transfer 100% of your transferrable credits to the four-year institution. At my community college and many others, there are even on-site four-year institutions that allow you to take classes online or during the weekends to receive your Bachelor's degree.
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| Southwest Virginia Community College Graduation May 10, 2019 |
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