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Community college is not what it used to be — in fact, there are major incentives to attending a local junior college. Not to mention the obvious financial advantage, junior college is a place where you can knock out your general courses and explore your other interests on a schedule that works for you. We like to that community schools can offer something to everyone. ADVERTISEMENT Pros Cost of Tuition The most obvious reason that students attend community college is for the financial advantage. Many junior colleges cost less than two thousand dollars each semester to attend full time. Attending community college gives students the chance to prepare for the financial demands of a 4-year university if they plan on transferring. Flexible Schedule Many students don't realize that if they plan on working while attending school, community college is hands down the best option. They offer far more night classes than other universities and more schedule options. The workload is lighter than a state school or private university and attendance is not usually required. Give students an opportunity to explore major options Instead of spending thousands of dollars at a private university towards a major that you are less than sure of, consider attending a community school while you are making your decision. Classes cost less, so you will have the opportunity to explore interests that you might not have otherwise pursued. Smaller Classes The class size is surprising to most students because the tuition is so reasonable. While classes aren't as small as those of a leading private university, many have as few as twenty students. In a smaller class, professors have the opportunity to learn more about their students. Likewise, students will find their teachers more accessible and can get assistance when they need it. Qualified Professors Everybody starts somewhere. Some of your professors will be fresh out of a master's program, but many will be well-seasoned academics who carry an impressive resume. Community schools are just as flexible for the students as for the professors. Many accomplished instructors teach part-time at community schools to allow plenty of time to focus on their own pursuits and career goals. Transitional Countless numbers of college freshman transfer out after their first year of studies. Many return, some don't. Unfortunately, many of these students felt displaced and found that their expectations were not met by the university they attended. Attending community school gives students the opportunity to earn college credit while taking the time to select the 4-year institution that is right for them. Because there is little financial investment, most students are deterred from dropping their studies altogether. Cons Limited Curriculum Typically, community colleges are 2-year schools. If you plan on obtaining a 4-year degree you will have to transfer to another university at some point. If you're looking for a permanent residence, this probably isn't the best place for you. Lighter Workload The workload is significantly lighter than at a state university or a private college. There is sometimes very little course work aside from major exams but keep in mind that college is what you make it - putting in the time is entirely up to you. Uninvolved Students This is probably the biggest deterrent for the junior college: Many of the students are uninvolved. Few have plans for an academic future outside of what they receive at the junior college level—and they study accordingly. This causes tension in the classroom, particularly with more accomplished professors who are not accustomed to dealing with complacent students. Outside of the lecture itself, classroom discussions are rarely stimulating as they are carried on solely by the professor and one or two enlightened individuals. Good news for the dedicated student: The professor will recognize your potential and reward you accordingly. Campus life (or lack thereof) Junior colleges do have clubs and organizations, but campus life is not an integral part of the atmosphere. For most students at community schools, their schedule revolves around work and classes are done in the meantime. If you are looking for a lively social scene, again, community college is probably not for you. ADVERTISEMENT Latest College & Financial Aid News Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting Scholarships April 8, 2022 by Liz Montenegro The Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting offers scholarships and mentoring programs to women who wish to pursue a degree in the Accounting. The mission of the EFWA is to support equitable access to career advancement and educational opportunities for women pursuing degrees in this field. The EFWA scholarship application opens in January and closes on April 30th for the majority of its scholarships, and the recipients are chosen by June 30th each year. [...] High School Juniors: 5 Things to do This Spring April 6, 2022 by Liz Montenegro If you’re a high school junior, now is the perfect time to get ahead of the college applications process. We’re here to help you stay organized and on track for a smooth senior year, without the last-minute stress that sounds something like, “I wish I had done this during junior year instead of cramming it all into my senior year.” Let’s take a look at some of the first things to tackle this spring. [...] The Gloria Barron Prize: Applications Due April 15, 2022 April 1, 2022 by Liz Montenegro Do you know an outstanding young leader whose service work has made a significant impact? Every year since 2001, the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes honors 25 extraordinary students between the ages of 8 and 18 who have made a substantial, positive impact on their communities and the environment. Applicants must be currently working on an inspiring service project or have done so within the past year. The Barron Prize only accepts applications from individuals, and not from large groups of young people. Fifteen of the top recipients will each win a $10,000 cash award to support their public service efforts or higher education endeavors, as well as a personalized plaque and certificate. Winners will also be given exclusive networking and media coverage opportunities, including print, television, and radio to spread awareness of their work. [...] Last Reviewed: April 2022 The Pros & Cons of Community Colleges Associate Degree Programs Community College Myth vs. Fact Choosing the Right School Benefits of Online Degree Universities There are numerous community colleges across the nation, and several undergraduates attend community colleges every year.