subject: Obama Grants Helping Mothers Prepare for Success [print this page] Obama Grants Helping Mothers Prepare for Success
Community colleges often get picked on. A 2-year college education could be exactly what a single or stay-at-home mom needs. Both academically and personally junior colleges present a wealth of options. Add in a financial advantage or two and your education is within reach. Despite the jokes and put-downs, community colleges do have something to offer students who are ambitious. The truth is that junior colleges are a welcoming environment that is usually close to home, relatively inexpensive and full of challenging course offerings. This is perfect for young moms who are recently out of high school as well as older working or stay-at-home moms who want to return to school. 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. The most important reason for many who attend a community college is the lower costs. Even with a $5,000 Pell Grant for a mother, saving money is always important. The cost of attendance at junior colleges is often half that of 4-year schools. There is much competition at liberal arts colleges for scholarships, but at many junior colleges high SAT scores and GPA almost guarantee a significant scholarship. Teen mothers who performed well in high school should definitely take note of this. 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. Honors programs at colleges are often a symbol of success, and a 2002 New York Times report found that many junior colleges offer these programs. The standard teachings at 4-year schools are increasingly becoming the templates for smaller community colleges. A good example is the junior college that offers study credits in places such as London and French Polynesia. All of these diverse courses and study opportunities expand students' knowledge and help them enroll in 4-year colleges. Attending a community college is made even more accessible for mothers who have earned a Pell Grant. Even as they benefit from a $5,000 grant, mothers can reap the financial savings benefits of going to a small local college. Whether you want to eventually earn an advanced degree or want to go into a business or industry, junior college can help you achieve that goal. A quality associate degree could lead to great career development.
