subject: Pell Grants: Helping Moms Go Back To School [print this page] Junior colleges frequently get a bad rapJunior colleges frequently get a bad rap. For busy moms community college can be a wonderful idea. Two-year colleges present many interesting possibilities for gaining an education. With financial opportunity you could get the education you want and need.
Despite the jokes and put-downs, community colleges do have something to offer students who are ambitious. There are actually some very enticing benefits to go to these schools, including the lower tuition costs. Mothers who work could especially benefit from the 2-year college system. Started in 2009, the Scholarships for Moms program helps to enroll moms in colleges and universities of all kinds. There are few better financial aid opportunities than a $5,000 grant.
One of the biggest attractions to junior colleges is the financial savings. Even having a $5,000 award doesn't take away from the wisdom of trying to save money. Usually the tuition and fees at a junior college are more than 50% less expensive than many colleges and universities. Furthermore, community colleges frequently offer full-ride scholarships to high school students with high standardized test scores and GPA. This is a significant prize for young moms who still managed to do well in school. A student can use the mom grant to pay for any school or school-related costs.
At many schools the gap is closing between the classes that 2-year colleges offer and those that are offered at big liberal arts universities. According to a 2002 New York Times article, 168 community colleges maintain honors programs. Chances to study broad interests are also part of the developing community college landscape. For example, many junior colleges now offer study abroad courses in places like China and Mexico. Since junior colleges are state- and locally-funded, it helps them as well when they offer intriguing courses and can attract top students.
The federal grant money for mothers will give an important boost to the women who want to go to school. The $5,000 grants for moms can ensure that junior college is within reach. Community colleges can be great training grounds for attendance at 4-year colleges as well as for entering the work force. Earning an associate degree is a smart choice on the road to being a professional.
