Community Colleges: Affordable, Accessible, and Underrated

By Avni Mishra

The end of senior year marks new beginnings for all seniors. As acceptances and rejections roll in, they prepare to start the next chapter of their lives. In America, there are opportunities for all types of education, regardless of your income level or the career path you are interested in. From community colleges to trade schools to universities, students have many options-- but which one is the best? 

Weighing out the pros and cons, the benefits of at least starting at a community college are clear. Students are able to receive two years of community college free of charge, then transfer to their dream school. This process can save thousands of dollars. On the other hand, how do students justify “missing out on the college experience”? 

College Counselor Ms. Isezaki thinks community college is a great, low-stakes learning environment for those unsure of what they want to do in the future. There are opportunities to try new electives at lower costs than regular universities. The average cost for two years of college in California ranges from $10,000 to $30,000, money that could be used for a masters’ degree instead. 

Additionally, taking the community college route creates a smoother transition from high school to college. The difficulty of college classes is unlike anything most high school students have experienced. At community college, this shift is made easier as students get more face-to-face contact with their professor and are able to form meaningful connections. Typically, in a university environment, classes are taught by graduate teaching assistants and professors are busy with other students during office hours. Ms. Isezaki said, “The benefit of going to smaller schools or community colleges is that you get a more intimate setting.” The relationships formed at community colleges can prove to be beneficial for letters of recommendations and future jobs.  

One of the biggest factors that repels students from considering community colleges is the stigma surrounding them. Ms. Isezaki says that many parents don’t fully understand the process behind choosing a college and judge schools based on descriptions they have heard from others. In reality, Ohlone College, Fremont’s community college, offers an excellent education. The college is also planning on expanding its campus to include on-campus housing. For kids who feel like they would be missing out on the “college experience,” this is the perfect alternative. Students are able to live independently while maintaining the comfort of living close to home. 

Overall, while there is stigma surrounding community college, it is important to find what type of learning environment works best for you and to consider other circumstances like money. Community College comes with its advantages and drawbacks, but only your efforts determine what you make of your situation.