I was thinking of taking college courses at the community college near me (Chaffey college) and I was wondering if this was a good idea?

Alyssa,

Maybe these information can help in your decision. There are Advantages and Disadvantage of Studying at a Community College:

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  Community college tuition and fees are normally about half of what they are each year at a four-year institution, according to the website "Study in America." For students intending to complete a four-year degree, the ability to transfer and save money during the first two years is significant. In other cases, high school graduates who may not be highly motivated to go to college do so because of the low cost option at a local community college. The low costs also aid older students looking to earn a degree or continue education while on the job.

  
  


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  Community colleges offer several classroom-specific benefits. First, class sizes typically range from 15 to 30 students, which compares favorable to large lecture courses at universities with 200 to 300 students at times. Additionally, community colleges have become critical in developing workers in semi-skilled or trade industries with highly focused, two-year technical programs, such as computer-aided design and culinary arts.

  
  


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  Community college instructors are also normally dedicated entirely to teaching classes, whereas professors at universities often combine research and teaching roles. Most community college instructors have industry experience in their fields, which allows for classroom examples on core concepts.

  
  


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  Some universities still restrict transfer of some classes into degree programs, which means students either must repeat classes or take additional credits toward a four-year degree. Additionally, students may experience a culture shock going from a community college to a university campus. This is especially true if you go from a small classroom setting to a large college environment.

  
  


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  Community colleges don't often have residence halls. While some do have on campus apartments or housing, the majority of community college students commute to class. This can cause what is often referred to as the "commuter effect." Part of the traditional college experience is building social relationships and participating in clubs and extracurricular activities. While many community colleges offer such activities to encourage community involvement, a number of students drive to classes and leave straight for work or home. The lack of a feeling of belonging can inhibit a student's overall experience.

  
  

In: http://education.seattlepi.com/advantages-disadvantage-studying-community-college-1016.html

This link can be great for you. Take a look:

http://www.tsc.edu/index.php/new-students/advantages-of-attending-a-community-college.html

Now, it´s up to you. Think about your priorities in this moment to make the best choice.

Good Luck!

Hi Alyssa!

Starting your education at a community college is a very smart move!! The cost is very reasonable, the credits transfer, and they have many programs such as coops and internships in which you can participate that will help with your education. To give yourself more information, go to the head of alumni relations at the community college and arrange to talk to graduates of that school who studied that areas of your interest and arrange to meet them at their place of work so you can see what they do, where they do it, and how they got there. Keep me posted! I would like to follow your progress!