The stigma of county colleges is poor. And for what reason? I have rounded up my spring semester at a county college with a great GPA, formative relationships with professors, knowledge in my major, and a plan for a successful college career. Meanwhile, I am without debt, maintained a job, spent time with my family and got to visit my friends at nearby colleges. County college was the best choice for me.

When graduation rolled around my senior year of high school, I was torn. Do I attend a four-year university or a local community college? A four-year college is practically expected of every kid in this generation. Some dream of the Ivy's and work to get there. Others know they will be decked out in the school colors of their state school, sure to be at every football game. Some kids have their dream school states away from home, knowing there's no looking back. Then, there's some who just didn't know where they belong.

I'm glad I found myself at a community college. I was able to focus on school my work. When I had to get an assignment done, I wasn't torn to make the decisions to go out with my friends because they just showed up at my dorm room. I made plans that worked for me and my school work, and my grades reflected it!

My professors understand that I'm only there temporarily, and have my best interest in mind. They got to know me, my major, and my plans for the rest of my college career. They understood that while I am a student, I also have a job, and some students even two or three jobs. Being in class was important and they made it well worth my time to be there.

Most four-year schools start with general electives for your first two years, then get into major specific courses later on. I was thrown right into classes specific to my career path. It allowed me to confident in the major I chose and even network with my professors teaching those courses. I know this will be extremely helpful when I move on to a four-year school.

County college is my two-year plan, but it doesn't stop there. Once I graduate with my associate's degree, I am moving on to a four-year college. I will finish college in four total years with a bachelor's degree. Just because I am at a community college doesn't mean I am not determined. I get four years of school at practically half the price. Two years at county college paid off before I spend two years at a four-year school which takes such a load off my loans! I'm definitely going to be pleased with that choice later.

Earning a degree and maintaining a job isn't always easy, but time management has become a priority because of it.

Growing up most kids can't wait to get away from their parents, but I am so thankful for this time with them. I am now at the age where we can enjoy each other be friends, and these extra few years at home with them really mean a lot to us.

Since most of my friends did go away to four-year schools, I was left with not many friends in my town, so I just went to visit them! I got to go see other schools at the best times, like rival football games and school-wide events. Now I know what to look forward to and expect when I transfer.

In the end, county college was the absolute best choice for me. It may not be for everyone and that's OK, but I am still getting a worthy and quality education. I look forward to transferring but I am grateful for my time and money well spent on county college.