- People don't talk to each other.
This one I probably hear the most. I'm not even sure how to address it. Uh, yeah! we talk. Sometimes, too much! But in all realness, between group work and seeing the same faces every day, it's hard not to. People sitting next to me were always friendly, and (pro tip!) would usually ask to share numbers on the first day of class.
2. You won't make friends.
Not only did I make friends in Community College, but I made significantly more friends than I did in High School. Also, people generally live close to each other. The social stigma has vanished, and everyone is there to better themselves. If you're worried, join a club or two. I'm still in touch with nearly all my CC friends post-transfer. All it takes is a little courage!
3. You'll miss out on the "college experience."
To be fair, I can't pinpoint what exactly is meant by the phrase, "college experience." If one is referring to nationally recognized sports games, sure. You probably don't have one at your CC. But if you're looking for an active campus, friendships, and academic moments of inspiration, you're perfect. I wouldn't trade my CC experience for anything, and I say this post-transfer.
4. You'll fall behind.
Most Community Colleges have agreements with local Universities to make sure your general education and specific major preparation courses will transfer. In order not to fall behind, all you need to do is visit a counselor and make sure you're taking the right classes! It's not unlike any other university. Also, be wary of pacing yourself and take some summer classes if you don't want to take the 15 unit average throughout the year.
5. Employers will look down on you.
First of all, none of your degrees will say in fine print: completed first two years at a community college. Secondly, I've seen employers literally light up at the mention of my local community college. It's seen as frugal and pragmatic!
6. Other people will look down on you.
I was once really worried about this. After freshman year of college, a lot of people I went to high school with changed schools, paths, or careers. It became evident that your institution's title was not a social defining factor. People at top-notch schools were expressing envy at my discounted tuition. But really, at the end of the day, who cares? You're here to get your education.
7. Your professors are subpar.
I'll be blunt. My CC Professors made themselves available and were inspirational in an on-the-ground way I am yet to see from a research University. I often miss the fringe conversations I could freely have during office hours with my instructors. There is an inherent humbleness to these, very qualified Professors that is made possible by the smaller class sizes. Your Professors are there for their students at a CC, before their research. It's such a blessing.
8. You are missing out.
On what? Go get em'! Power to the CC-er!
