As the end of the school year creeps in, seniors are deciding their future plans. Many are taking the four-year college path, while others plan on attending a local community college. Both are great options.
A huge issue that students have with going directly to a four-year college is the amount of money that it costs to go there.
“Although it is definitely on the pricey side, I believe it gives a different form of the college experience compared to a community college,” senior Jackie Edwards said.
A student whose parents are not planning to pay for them to attend college often feels more comfortable attending a community college to avoid student debt.
“An amazing part about going to a community college is how people can save a lot of money due to the Promise program, which helps reduce student debt,” senior Mimi Naskovska said.
The promise program is a scholarship that offers free tuition, and additional support for supplies such as textbooks and mentorship.
Some people going to a community college are worried about not getting the “college experience” and living on their own if they go to a community college. A downside about going to community college is getting serious FOMO (fear of missing out) and not having as much independence, as many are still living at home while attending school.
Although some people can’t wait to get away from their family, others are excited to stay.
“I plan to attend Miramar, where I will study to become a nurse and then transfer out. I am excited to live with my family and stay close to them. Staying here in Poway is also allowing me to teach at my dance studio, which I currently attend,” senior Kenzie Farnham said.
Some attending a four-year school look forward to participating in Greek life. While community colleges have clubs to choose from, they do not have traditional sororities or fraternities at their school. If Greek life is a student’s deciding factor, they are likely to attend a four-year college.
“I am committed to the University of Alabama, and I am so excited to rush for a sorority. Greek life has a huge social scene, where many people meet their best friends for life in their sororities. It is one of the things that I am the most excited for in college,” senior Abby Tremble said.
There is no “right path” for a student after they graduate high school. “Students should stick with what they believe is the best choice for them to set themself up for success,” Counselor Arreguin said.
