Although some unfairly label it the "fallback" approach, attending a community college can actually be a "forward-thinking" move. In fact, there are lots of opportunities for students to get involved in competitive sports, organizations, and activities, explains Dr. Irving Pressley McPhail, chancellor of The Community College of Baltimore County (Baltimore, MD). Plus, this all comes without an SAT requirement or a hefty price tag.

"Many students leave four-year institutions with a full education, empty pockets, and the burden of school loans for years to come," says Dr. McPhail. "Currently, there are 1,173 community colleges nationwide that provide students with an excellent and affordable alternative to a four-year university." 

Accessible Profs
Saving on the cost doesn't mean skimping on the education. In fact, smaller class sizes may mean your professors are more accessible.

"Courses at community colleges are not taught by teaching assistants," explains Dr. McPhail. "[They're taught] by highly credentialed faculty, with low student-teacher ratios, guaranteeing personalized attention and ensuring success."

Students attest to that. "Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC, Pittsburgh, PA) provides an excellent learning environment - small class sizes, outstanding teachers, and many possibilities for student interaction," adds Courtney Boyd (pictured above), CCAC class of 2005. "The small class sizes are conducive to class discussions where everyone can participate. My teachers have been excellent, too - not only in their teaching ability, but in their accessibility."

Although Courtney's leaning toward political science as a major, the marketing intern has yet to choose a definite career path. But she's certain she made the right choice to go to a community college while she dabbles in subjects that pique her interest.

Easy Transfer
And should Courtney decide to attend a four-year university, she can always transfer. Vita Rizzo, a graphic designer for Design 446 in Manasquan, NJ, did so without a hitch.

"At first, I didn't know what I wanted to do with art - whether I wanted to [pursue] fine arts or become a graphic designer," explains Vita, 24. "So instead of wasting my parents' money on a four-year program, I went to a community college."

After graduating from Brookdale Community College (Lincroft, NJ) with an associate degree in fine arts, Vita had a better idea of what she wanted to focus on. She then transferred to Monmouth University (West Long Branch, NJ), where she completed her bachelor's degree. "It was really easy to transfer since I maintained a good GPA."