We discussed some of the wonderful advantages that university life and education have. However, we must discuss some of the other disadvantages that are also associated with university learning. As we discuss this, keep in mind that they in no way show that you should give up on your higher education goals, only that you should view your educational process with realistic expectations.
When compared to the community college system, the first and most distinct disadvantage that comes to mind is the high cost of college-level higher education. Community colleges are simply more economical than universities. The costs go far beyond the money that would be spent on room and board, making the cost of tuition prohibitive most of the time. While there are many types of financial aid available to students, the vast majority of college students survive on the use of student loans, which must be repaid at a fairly high rate of interest in order to cover the costs associated with college education.
Besides the obvious downside, there are a few other downsides worth mentioning in this circumstance. First, universities don't have the small, intimate classrooms that literally set community colleges apart. In fact, for lower-level courses, most universities offer large auditorium classes that are taught by graduate students rather than professors, and most of the time, students never get to know those who are in charge of their politeness in more than a nod and a smile as you pass the base of the halls. Many consider this method of learning to be exceptionally inferior, and statistics prove that students who go straight to a four-year university environment, rather than going through a community college to begin with, are distant less likely to total their degrees.
Of a disadvantage, many people find the impersonal atmosphere of most universities to be quite limiting for interacting with other students. The smaller classroom environments of community colleges invite interaction among the students in the class. An open line of communication within the classroom is far preferable to having so many students that no one has a voice or the ability to express their opinions or personal experiences for certain topics.
Another downside to college life is the size of college campuses. Community colleges are much more compact. This means that students have a very reasonable chance of getting to all classes on time and without the worry of walking 2 miles in ten minutes. While this is great for physical fitness, missing the first ten minutes of class a week can limit the educational process your college experience should provide. It seems like such a small thing on the one hand, but when you're carrying a full day's worth of textbooks and a laptop–that hike can be something Marines seem dubious about undertaking.
While there are some distinct downsides to college life, the fact is that graduating from a university is the biggest way to increase your earning potential throughout your life. The values are not insignificant. I strongly recommend that you attend a community college for the first two years of your college education. In addition, I strongly recommend that you consider the value that completing your education and earning a four-year degree can offer.
If you want to build self-confidence, earning potential, and job security, there is no way to do it that is higher than getting a four-year degree. It doesn't matter where you are in life or in your career; It's never too late to study. There are so many things in the world that a good education will open your eyes to, besides the doors of opportunity that a four-year degree will open.
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