The Pros and Cons of Community College
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. In my own experience, I found
that junior college was a great place for me to figure out what major I was going
to pursue and where I would eventually obtain my degree from. One of the most impressive
professors that I have had the pleasure of learning from taught at the community
school I attended, and some of the most interesting people I have ever met went
there—think famous rock stars back from a tour in Europe just looking to learn a
little Spanish. Maybe I just got lucky, but I'd like to think that community schools
can offer something to everyone.
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, unfortunately, 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. In fact, when I attended junior college I ran into one of the professors
from the private university I had previously attended, and she was teaching a night
class—case in point!
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. The student body is largely composed of
students who could not attend another university because of their grades and thus,
the expectation for student performance is reduced. There is typically and air of
frustration among the staff—mostly related to students neglecting homework and blowing
of class. As a consequence, there is very little course work aside from major exams.
Keep in mind that college is always 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. 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 mean time.
If you are looking for a lively social scene, again, community college is probably
not for you.