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In what ways is going to a community college first beneficial than going straight to a state?

I am a junior in high school and I'm debating on what is safer. #college #college-selection

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Thank you comment icon Hi Jay! This is such a great question! To be honest, community colleges are affordable ways to get lots of your basic credits out of the way. However, you will find that the education in state universities are much more rigorous and higher quality. The good news is you don't have to choose one or the other. I have lots of friends who spend summers getting their basics done at community colleges and then transfer them over to their state college where they complete all their classes for their major. Just make sure you're aware of the schools credit transfer policy. And since you're a junior, you still have time to benefit from dual credit courses! Hope this helps and I wish you the best. Mireia
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Maurice’s Answer

It all depends on what you are looking for.

Personally, I went to a community college for 2 years before transferring to the state university. I found that the community college was more affordable and the material is easily understandable. However, I learned so much more at the state college. The quality of education was so dramatic that I was almost underprepared for the state college. I did quickly adapt and was able to succeed.

If you can afford it, I'd recommend going straight into the state college. However, if you are looking to get a taste of the college life and save some money, I'd say go to the community college.

Good luck!
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Matthew’s Answer

Hello Jay,


I did not enroll in a community college when I began my college career. I enrolled in a private 4 year school, then transferred to an out of state, state university. My wife on the other hand, did enroll in a community college and then matriculated into the state university I was attending.


When I started, I never considered the benefits of beginning at a community college. There was a stigma at that time that community colleges were somehow inferior to 4 year colleges and universities. I can tell you from my wife's experience, that is not true at all.


The main benefit to enrolling in a community college is the deep reduction in tuition and fees you would incur attending a 4 year institution. Do not allow others to sway you that by attending community college that your level of education will be diminished. You get out of any school you attend, by what you put into your learning. The same gen. ed. (General Education) courses you will take at community college such as English, math, science and social sciences is not much different than what freshmen and sophomores take in 4 year colleges and universities - but at almost half the cost!


You will develop friendships and connections at community college similar to students enrolled at 4 year schools. The difference between the two is that traditionally, you would be living in a dorm or suite on campus (unless you are a commuting student). There is something to say for being on a campus that provides some people with the opportunity to grow networks and connections. By enrolling in a community college and then rolling over to a 4 year college/university, you will still make connections and grow a network and at the end of the 2nd two years, you will have the same degree as those students who spent double the money as you did.


Good luck with your decision!

Matthew recommends the following next steps:

Double check the state school that you wish to attend as to what courses they will accept that you complete at the community college.
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Astrid’s Answer

Personally, I found that going to community college first helped me . Not only are classes cheaper but the smaller atmosphere allows you to better work with others, making it easier to discuss study strategies, etc. This has helped me be better prepared for the courses at a bigger school.
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