There are a multitude of common misconceptions about community college in today's society. There is so much judgement surrounding community colleges and plenty of negative connotations associated with them. It wasn't until the end of my high school career that I came to the realization that these assumptions are anything but true. For many people, a junior college or a community college is only a step in the process of earning a degree. It often serves as a gateway to continuing one's studies at a four-year college or university.

When I decided to attend community college before proceeding to attend a big university, I found myself embarrassed by my decision. I would attend family events silently hoping that relatives wouldn't ask me about my college plans. Inevitably, this always turned into having to explain my situation and my choice. I was ashamed; I felt as though I had failed. Eventually, I realized that I was beyond wrong. I had blindly fallen victim to a stereotypical misconception created by society. By attending a community college before a four-year institution, I (and my parents) will not only be saving money because of the significantly lower tuition, but I will also be able to experience a more diverse environment of learners than I would at a state college or university.

Community college is not just a "last resort"; it is often a first choice. It is not reserved for older, "non-traditional" students. It is giving me a fresh start, a fresh start that I needed. It provides accessible, affordable education opportunities to those who might not otherwise have them. People should not feel sorry for me, and more importantly, I should not feel sorry for myself. I should not feel degraded, or feel a need to explain and defend the choices I made for my education. If anything, I should be proud of the actions I am taking to be a step closer to a college degree. Attending a community college does not mean I am any less of a student. I am still going to college. My choice to attend a community college does not and will not determine my success in life, regardless of the stigma present in society today.