Many people down talk community college, but I'm here to tell you, that it saved my life.... Like most teens, making their departure from high school, I was confused. Being one of the first people in my family to attend college, I had so many unanswered questions. What's next, where do I start, what do I want to be etc.... The list was endless. I felt so alone.

I knew I had to do something, so I started by applying to as many colleges as I could. Most of my choices were based on where my "friends" were applying to. Months went by, and I was accepted to several colleges, but that only fueled the fire of my confused soul. Where was I going to go? I didn't even know the next step to attending college. Why couldn't it be as simple as applying, getting accepted, and then attending classes?

I also wanted the option of going to school for free. I was an average student, so I felt that others would probably beat me out of scholarship opportunities, considering I only had about a month left in high school, and the application deadline for most scholarships had already pasted.

After carefully reviewing my options, that when I decided to give community college a shot. I called several of the local city colleges to speak with the basketball coaches. I knew I was no athlete, but I had a way with people. I met up with one of the coaches, and was offered a full (2yr) scholarship to be the team manager, and received a promise to get a scholarship to a 4yr college/university to complete my B.A. What a blessing that was.

I'm sure most people would have laughed at the idea of being team manager, but I attended school for free, traveled every weekend, and I didn't feel alone. The coach, professors, staff and players were very helpful. When I did get to the next step (university), I knew just what to do.

Community college allowed me to stand out, when I may have been considered average at a 4yr institution. While there, I received a high G.P.A, which led to my full ride for the rest of my college career. I obtained an A.A degree. This came in very handy. Just imagine, in the event that I was unable to continue my education or decided to postpone it, it felt good knowing that I had something to fall back on. I learned a lot while working on my degree. Now that I am now a working class adult, it feels good knowing that I don't have any student loans, and I still have a great relationship with the college basketball coach.

This is something I felt you must know

Some benefits of community college:

1.) Cheaper

2.) Smaller

3.) Easier (in many cases)

4.) You will receive a 2yr degree (A.A)

5.) degrees and credits are transferable

That's just to name a few! Hope you enjoyed my blog. Please leave any questions and/or comments. I truly hope this helps someone in their life decision!