Decision Making: University or Community College

Now that you’re taking the big step from being a high school graduate to someone who is paving a career path, the question is in which institution of higher learning you should go to. Incoming college freshmen usually have two choices: either they go to a university or they go to a community college. What is the difference? As follows:

* University – Universities usually have strict requirements and guidelines for college freshman admissions. Not too many prospective college students get through the admissions process. But the quality of education as well as the amenities are great. Plus, universities have a wide range of courses and majors.

* Community college – Some college students use the community college as a stepping stone to universities. That’s because while universities are bent on bringing their students to perfection, the kind of training one gets from community colleges is like preparation for life in the university. Courses and majors, as well as cultural diversity, are limited.

Should you go to a university or a community college? Here are factors that you have to consider:

* Cost – If you prefer to cut down on costs, then the community college would be your best bet. That’s because tuition in community colleges is usually just half than that in universities. The catch, though, comes when your course or major of choice is not available in the community college. It’s either you just look for another community college, or you just invest and go to the university, where you’ll surely find your course of choice.

* Location – From the name itself, community colleges are obviously nearer to your place because they are just located near your locality. But if you’d rather stay away from your place so that you’ll have more freedom to study on your own, then you can go ahead and seek for university admissions. Universities are usually equipped with dorms which will provide your needed accomodation.

* Transition – If you want an easier transition from high school to college, opt for a community college. Universities impose standards right on the onset of the class, so you have to exert effort on your part to cope with these changes. If you do decide to go to a university, you will have to submit a number of requirements such as the admissions essay. If you are still clueless on what should you include in the essay, you can sample personal statement essay samples online.

Photo Credit : Ralph Hockens

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