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.