Like most people, I had a whole list of expectations going into my freshman year of college. I would go to university, live in a dorm, meet so many friends, and join clubs I was interested in... but instead, I went to community college. I was devastated at the thought of not having a "true college experience". Little did I know that going to community college was one of the best decisions I made for myself.

I think we all have heard the stigma surrounding community college... maybe it's for kids that don't want to move out because they're afraid of independence or maybe it's because they couldn't get into universities. No matter what the stigma is, it makes incoming college students feel ashamed that they aren't moving away like their friends are. The truth is that there is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of for deciding to go to community college.

I ended up going to community college for my first two years of college and then transferred to a university to finish out my bachelor's degree. Spending equal amount of time in both settings really made me realize how much of an advantage I had over some university students by starting out at community college. Let me tell you...there are so many advantages of going to community college versus a university:

1. Community college is cheaper... way cheaper.

Community college is known for its "affordable" rates per credit hour. Compared to universities, community college may be upwards of 3 times as cheap, plus, no housing on campus to worry about! Student Loan Hero calculated the costs of college credits and found that "..a student who earns their first 60 credits at a two-year public school before transferring to an in-state college would pay an average of $11,377 less for a four-year degree."

2. Free/cheap and easy parking.

Some community colleges offer cheap or even free parking which is a complete godsend compared to parking at a university. Many universities are known for limited (and expensive) parking spaces that are far away from buildings on campus. Small campuses are a bonus because no matter what parking spot you get, it is always going to be fairly close to your class.

3. Many community colleges offer sports teams.

If you played high school sports, you may be able to continue that passion at community college. More and more community colleges are offering sports teams and even scholarships for joining them.

4. Community Colleges will host events on campus and offer clubs you can join.

I think most people are afraid they won't get a true college experience while going to community college, but it is more than possible to make the most of it! Explore various clubs on campus and meet people with similar interests as you. Often times community colleges will host events on campus and that is a great way to get involved and meet people as well.

5. People you meet will live within driving distance of you.

When you meet friends at universities it's all great until you have to say goodbye in the summertime. Meeting friends that go to the same community college as you means that your friends won't live in other states or hours away.

6. Community college gives you an opportunity to boost your GPA.

If you graduated with a not so great GPA, like me, you may be discouraged from ever getting a scholarship to a university. I have good news for you, if you complete more than a year at community college, typical universities will only look at your college GPA. If you get good grades and care, it will impact your future transfer.

7. Small class sizes are a major plus.

When sitting in a giant lecture hall with 100+ other students, it can be hard to pay attention, hear your professor speaking, and near impossible to develop a relationship with your professor. Community colleges tend to offer smaller class sizes of around 30 or so students. This allows you as an individual to engage more and possibly develop friendships with others in the class.

8. Some community colleges swear by not canceling courses even with a low enrollee count.

I was in a class with 9 people enrolled in it. It gave me a huge advantage with learning in that course and allowed me to create a relationship with my professor. Universities will cancel a course leaving you scrambling to fill your schedule in time for the start if the semester.

9. If you live at home you cut the costs of "room and board".

Saving $10,000+ a year and avoiding dorms without air condition? YES PLEASE!

10. Community college will ease you into your newfound independence.

College can be a very intimidating thing for incoming freshman and going to a smaller and closer school can help ease any anxiety that students may have. There is absolutely nothing wrong with choosing a school that you will be most comfortable at.

11. Community colleges sometimes offer the best programs in your state (for cheap).

I know of many community colleges that specialize in areas such as nursing or culinary arts. Just because it's a smaller school doesn't mean the programs are bad.

Remember... community college doesn't have to be forever.

A lot of students believe that when they go to community college it is too late to transfer later on and continue their education towards a bachelor's degree...this is completely false. Going to community college gives you a leg up and an opportunity to save money to further your education at a university if you choose to do so. Go forth and get an education at a college you love, no matter how big or small.