Thousands upon thousands of students graduate from high school every year and think “What now?” Some of them will feel pressured by their parents or peers to attend a four-year college. Some of them will join the work force immediately. But if a student isn’t ready — for one reason or another — to pack up their bags and get a bachelors degree, what choice does he have? Community college is a perfect post-graduation option for many students. The following list details five reasons why community college may be the smartest move.
- Cost. Community colleges are not nearly as expensive per credit hour as universities. If cost is holding the student back from attending school, starting off at a community college can keep the student sharp without draining funds.
- Flexibility. Having a full-time job is not an automatic disqualifier when it comes to community college. The student can take as many or as few courses as he wants, and he can take them when he wants. This flexibility is also accommodating for the student with family obligations.
- Necessity. If the student’s goal is a job that only requires an associate’s degree, attending a four-year college is unneeded. Careers in the technology and service sectors often fit this category.
- Skepticism. If the student is unsure of what his career goals are, he can save money and figure out his interests at community college.
- Skill building. If, in high school, the student did not make the greatest grades or didn’t receive a high SAT or ACT score, community college may be the default option. Community colleges will let almost any student in, and he can build his scores and grades in that environment.