Wednesday, April 6, 2016

College Doesn't Have to Cost a Fortune



There was once a guy who had been an honor student throughout his entire scholastic life. When he graduated from high school and was preparing to start college, he felt compelled to attend a prestigious university because he felt that this was what was expected of him because of how he had excelled through school. When he had finished college, received his degree, and was beginning to pursue his career, he discovered that no one cared about any part of his college career except for the fact that he had received his degree, and in only a very few cases, from where he had received his degree, which made him realize that much of the financial debt that had been attached to his attending the prestigious university could have been avoided.

This is not to say that renowned, but expensive colleges and universities don’t have their place in society, but for those who are not pursuing an education because they cannot afford one, these colleges are typically the reason that many choose simply not to attend. 

For those who cannot afford a 4-year university degree, community college is an option that should be explored. The government offers federal grants for education, and the costs associated with attending community colleges can, in most instances, be covered by these grants without the necessity to apply for loans to help cover the cost of education. In addition, much of the coursework is easily transferable to universities, so that individuals who desire to pursue Advanced Degrees can do so less expensively. 

I have often told my children that college is not about the institution, but is more about the education gained from the institution and the education’s usefulness to one’s life. For the many who feel as if they cannot attend college because of the cost, exploring the community college option is a path that many should consider. Even for those who are seeking professional certification, this can be accomplished at many community colleges for a cost that can usually be covered by Federal Grants. It is definitely something to consider.

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