by Thom W. Conroy

Created on: June 04, 2009

Community Colleges serve the educational needs of any given locale in a personal and economically friendly manner, and as such are well deserving of patronage and support. While a degree from a Community College may be nowhere near the prestige of an Ivy League education, the result is positive from all perspectives for a potential student desirous of obtaining higher education. Community Colleges are a wonderful "stepping stone" - to an advanced degree, to find suitable employment in a shortened time frame, or to merely improve ones knowledge of a given subject for personal enrichment. In the realm of higher education, Community Colleges provide perhaps the most outstanding value for every dollar spent compared to more well - known institutions.

A Community College education is a tremendous financial advantage over large institutions, beginning with a student's ability to attend classes without the necessity of relocation. Especially in the instance of a recent high school graduate, the first few semesters of college study are less stressful if a stable home life can be maintained without distraction. From a financial perspective, a Community College education saves not only on tuition cost per credit, but also on transportation fees, dormitory and food costs and all expenses associated with daily life. In addition, because a Community College student is a resident of the area, most tuition rates are further reduced, thus limiting the need for student loans. Because of these features, a Community College graduate start their post-college life in a much more financially advantageous position comparative to their peers that attend more expensive schools.

In the area of quality education most Community Colleges are comparable to their larger counterparts, with most of the course credits transferable toward an advanced degree at more distinguished universities. One of the more attractive benefits of a Community College education lies in their programs, as the diversity gives students considerable flexibility in career paths and the time required to obtain employment in a new field of endeavor. Work/study programs and internships are a cornerstone of Community College education, and enables a student to apply lessons learned in the classroom to real world applications. Smaller class sizes gives a student an opportunity to communicate with instructors in a more personalized setting, and should problems arise, a more direct avenue to resolution and assistance.

In the final analysis, a Community College education is an excellent way to pursue dreams, without hassle or excessive expense.

Learn more about this author, Thom W. Conroy.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.