If I were to work on my prerequisites at a local public university for two years and then transfer too a public university out of state, is it worth it?

Hi Jade,

I think getting your pre-reqs out of the way at a local university isn't a bad idea, often it allows you the time to really decide what concentration you want to receive your degree in.

However, transferring can be very tricky, escpecially if it is to another school out of state where credits and degree requirements may be very different. make sure you check into what core classes will actually transfer over so that you are not setting yourself up to be behind once you transfer.

Hi Jade! I’m sorry no one’s answered your question yet. We're working hard to get it answered by Professionals with the best insights, but in the meantime I've included a link to a relevant Q&A here on CareerVillage.org that should be super helpful for you to read through.

Esmerelda asked: What opinions do you have on going to a community college first and then transfer?, and one of the Pros who answered it said:

I think it’s a good idea to attend community college and later transfer to a four year college. The transition from high school to college can be overwhelming. I myself started at a community college completed the program and later apply to a four year college.

My community college prepared me and motived me to attend Long Island University in N.Y by than I was ready mentally. Mentally meaning my experience from the community college, I knew what I wanted and I set a dead line. It help me stay on point to finish and this was done by time management. Knowing the next class to take toward my graduation. Another thing you should do make sure the community college you are attending your credits are accepted when it’s time to transfer...

Click the question to read more of what this Pro and others had to say!

Good luck! 

Abby 

Community Management Intern at CareerVillage.org

It is great that you started off closer to home. It benefited you financially and economically for the time being. If you are able to branch out and get the experience of traveling and learning a new place, I would recommend to do so. Not only because it’s something you want to do but also because it will help give you more experience and tools that help your skills and mind set. Helping you to learn to adapt to new places as well as different people. Getting you more experience in social change not just geographical change.

Hi Jade,

A college degree is what most employer's are looking for, not necessarily which college you attended to earn your degree. So you have many options.

I started a a 2-year local community college then transferred for my last 2 years at California State University, Northridge to save money. Both experiences were new and invaluable to me.

I have a son that attended all 4 years out of State. He loved the new cultural experience, but now that he has his degree he realizes that he spent at least 2x the amount of money to go out of state for his degree.

My daughter attended all 4 years in State. However her college was a 10 hour drive away from home. She saved a lot of money by staying in state, but experienced a very different culture than where she attended high school.

So, If you want to save $ on your education, perhaps you can stay in state but find a city that will offer a unique experience.