A lot of people often get horrified at the thought of going to a Community College before a University. Why? Well, it is probably because of a couple of reasons.

1. Everyone you know will be there.
2. There is a rumor going around that it is not as hard as “real” college or what we call a University.
3. It’s too close to home.
4. It’s just not what you envisioned.

You go to college to learn. That is the goal. All the clubs, athletics, and special events are just bonuses. Think about it. Everything that college is, you pay for so when picking a school, one must be aware of what the program is like and if it is worth the money.

Community College is a cheaper alternative to University. A lot of students start off there and then transfer. There are many benefits to doing so that most students do not consider. It is almost as if the words “Community College” is like the plague. It is not as bad as you think.

I transferred to my University from my Community College. Now, that was not on my original plan, but I am actually glad that I did it. While I only did a year there, it gave me a taste of what college would be like. It is definitely a different pace than high school. I struggled to get books and supplies like everyone else, I took the bus, I had to manage my time, and I had to keep my credits in check and make sure I was taking all the classes I needed to transfer. So, the first benefit of Community College first would have to be the college experience without the immense amount of debt. One can also use this type of school to experiment. If you really want a higher education but you are just not sure what you want to do yet, then you can surely try out a few classes and see if anything fits. It is less of a risk than going to a University fresh off the big yellow school bus as an Undecided. It’s just not fun for you or your bank account.

As for the class levels, I would say it all depends on how much of a challenge you want and what you test into. If you test into higher levels, the school will surely give you a challenge and if you test into lower levels, they will work with you to get you to be where you need to be. This is especially helpful for anyone who has been out of school for a while or struggling in a particular subject. Some Universities give placement tests and others just throw you in classes meant for your major, no questions asked. And depending on the University, you could be missing out on some serious personal attention if you are still having a hard time adjusting. Community College makes it easy for anyone to get a good quality education but what it ultimately comes down to is your desire to work and your work ethic – just like at a regular University. Valedictorians do not become Valedictorians without losing a lot of hours of sleep.

When it comes down to the other students in the college, be prepared to see some alumni from your high school. It is just how it is. But do not think that it will be just a repeat of your senior year because there are more people out there in your area than just the kids that graduated with you. In fact, there is a whole world out there, but you have to be open and new possibilities and new faces will come your way. In fact, I met one of my now closest friends in Community College. She lives 10 minutes away from me and I never saw her because she was homeschooled. I also met a lot of other people in my classes that I still talk to regularly and will never forget.

I think people should be a little bit kinder to Community Colleges when they think about them. It will not hurt you to consider it even if it is just for a year, a semester, or even a summer to get one or two classes out of the way. I transferred 30 credits over to my University. Because I worked so hard, they accepted all of them and I did not have to take any of those entry-level courses. I saved a lot of money and that gave me more room to do other things like pursue a minor. On top of that, I received a scholarship the second time I applied. The first time I applied, I did not get any type of scholarship and only federal aid. That time to grow really helped me.

And that rumor that University kids are smarter than people in Community College needs to be squashed. I have seen plenty of kids who got into really good schools flunk out the first year. Intellect and talent are half the journey. Your work ethic counts too. What about your drive to continue to learn? What about the dedication? Every single all-nighter will pay off in the longer run. When we start college, no matter what level, we are all on the same page. It is what kind of energy we bring to the race that gets us past all the other hot shot runners who can only run for speed. Speed is half the journey. You have to be willing to make the distance to get that degree, get that job, and get the life you desire.

If you are seriously not considering Community College for one or all of the four reasons I listed at the beginning, then please reconsider. I am not saying straight out of high school to University is a bad thing, but if you are unsure of what you want to do, need time to adjust, or want to save money, it is definitely a good option for you to consider. Do not make any decisions based on false myths. Do your research and pick the best option for you.