Pell Grants: Helping Mothers Go Back To School

To many people junior college isn't "real" school

. Trying to attend school as a mother, however, means seriously looking into junior college options. Both academically and personally junior colleges present a wealth of options. Financial aid is a common concern, but taking care of that is part of the package as well.

Despite the jokes and put-downs, community colleges do have something to offer students who are ambitious. Strong course work, lower tuition and geographic nearness are three of the best characteristics of community colleges. Mothers who work could especially benefit from the 2-year college system. Initiated in 2009, President Obama's Grants for Moms are aimed at alleviating some of the financial pressure moms have in trying to go to school. A $5,000 award to return to school is a huge incentive.

Perhaps the biggest reason many people choose community college is to save money. Even having a $5,000 award doesn't take away from the wisdom of trying to save money. The tuition at a community college is tens of thousands of dollars cheaper than big 4-year universities. In fact many high school graduates with a high SAT score can get a full scholarship to go to junior college. This is good news for a teen mother who wouldnt find it feasible to attend a university even if she has the high test scores to allow it. Even with some expenses paid, the scholarship for moms can be used to pay for travel expenses, childcare and other school-related expenses.

Junior colleges are becoming much more diverse and challenging in the level of courses they have. A 2002 New York Times article found that 168 junior colleges have an honors program. Many also have study opportunities that reflect the opportunities at big liberal arts universities. One 2-year school in the Times article encouraged and provided opportunity to study abroad in various places. These quality academic opportunities can help students as they work toward further degrees and as they develop their careers.

With scholarships for mothers, junior colleges are even more in reach than before. Even as they benefit from a $5,000 grant, mothers can reap the financial savings benefits of going to a small local college. Going to school in a less pressurized environment can greatly affect performance and make achievement seem more attainable. Earning an associate degree is a smart choice on the road to being a professional.

by: Marlon Jackson

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