by Misty Phillips

Created on: February 08, 2009   Last Updated: January 29, 2011

So, you are wondering what a career college is like? We all have seen the movies with the huge auditoriums filled with people, but the reality is that a career college classroom is more like a high school classroom. What are the differences? The atmosphere. For starters, it is more laid back, your professor is not going to call your parents if you are late or miss class. So basically, it is the time that we finally begin taking responsibility for ourselves.

One of the most appealing things about a career college is that you are surrounded by a hugely diverse audience. There is no set age, your fellow classmates can be your age or your parents' age. These people come from all walks of life, whether it be fresh out of high school or an older adult returning years later for continuing education.

Also, you typically still live on your own when attending a career college, there is no dorm rooms. So, for transitional purposes, career college is much easier on most people because the overall experience is not too different from high school.

Career colleges also are very accepting, and typically have an "open-door" policy. This basically means they give you a placement test, but are not overly concerned with grade point averages or standardized test scores like your four year universities. So, the acceptance process is a lot simpler, and easier to deal with.

You do miss out on a lot of things like being in a sorority, or fraternity. But, those are not for everyone. And, career colleges usually still have organizations and clubs that you can join to meet new people, and people that share your interests.

The staff and teachers are usually easier to work with. It seems to be a slower paced environment than your traditional four year college. It is quite simple to get in touch with your teachers, they all have offices on campus, and they readily give out their contact information, such as email addresses and phone numbers. These professors also seem to be more relaxed, they talk to you like an equal and give you guidance more easily because their class sizes are not overwhelmingly large.

So, if you are looking for an on campus living arrangement, and a more fast past environment, go to a four year college. But, if your ideal scene is more laid back, diverse, and open, then stick with a career college.

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