The stigma that surrounds going to a community college is crazy, and it would be a lie to say that they didn’t bother me. From stereotypes to harmful misconceptions, it’s hard to not feel angry or sad because of the way we’re perceived. As a community college student, however, someone who has actually experienced the community college lifestyle, this is my truth.

  1. There are a lot of talented and intelligent individuals here.
    • At CCBC, I know individuals who are well-rounded, very talented in the arts, and academically advanced. There’s always this stereotype that community college students are just students who didn’t get into any colleges, and honestly, I can’t stress how inaccurate and misleading a statement like that is.
  2. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities!
    • From my experience, community college, in addition to being a much more affordable option for students from all walks of life, also has a lot of financial aid and scholarship opportunities. If you didn’t know yet, you could even go to CCBC for FREE! If you’re interested in scholarship opportunities, the college has this academic tool that’ll introduce you to financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
  3. The classes will challenge you (in a good way of course!)
    • Another common misconception when you go to a community college is that “the classes are easy peasy.” As a student here, I want to say that this is untrue. The classes at CCBC challenge you academically and help you grow as well. Paired with professors who care and a class size where you’ll be able to be more active, CCBC will support your growth as both a student and a person.
  4. Internships and Work-Study
    • At CCBC, there are also several internship opportunities and work-study programs that’ll help you gain experience in your desired career path. Contrary to the belief that there aren’t many opportunities when you go to a community college, CCBC has a lot of programs including Summer Research Experiences.
  5. CCBC Student Life is great!
    • Of course, I wouldn’t forget this one. Despite being in the middle of a pandemic, CCBC’s student life office works very hard to provide the students with both social and informative events. Whether it be virtual or in-person, the Office of Student Life never disappoints!
Costs and Paying for College

Retrieved from https://www.ccbcmd.edu/Costs-and-Paying-for-College.aspx

At the end of the day, whether you go to a community college or a university, what truly matters is how you’ll make the best out of the opportunities presented to you. Everyone has their own timeline so no need to feel pressured. With all that said, HAPPY SPRING 2022, and may this be a great semester for all of us. Here’s to stepping out of our comfort zones and challenging ourselves.