subject: Moms: Junior College And You [print this page] Junior colleges frequently get a bad rapJunior colleges frequently get a bad rap. For women with children, 2-year colleges actually have some tremendous advantages. There are a number of academic and personal benefits to attending a junior college, and these schools eagerly welcome high-achievers. Add in a financial advantage or two and your education is within reach.
It's a big myth that junior colleges aren't for serious students. There are actually some very enticing benefits to go to these schools, including the lower tuition costs. The community college system is ideal for moms who don't have a lot of time or extra money on their hands. The federal education grants for mothers are helping ambitious mothers take the classes they need to earn degrees. The $5,000 grant is a huge bonus for going to college.
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. Usually the tuition and fees at a junior college are more than 50% less expensive than many colleges and universities. Having high SAT scores and GPA could result in a 2-year college paying through scholarships for that bright student to come to that school. A young mom could greatly benefit from being rewarded for her efforts in high school. 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. One particular school in Arizona even had various overseas study opportunities. Some schools with high achievement have been able to develop unique study abroad opportunities. The benefit is that students gain a broader perspective of the world, and colleges are able to attract more 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. Junior colleges are fully capable of producing capable professionals who move into work or go on to get an advanced degree. A quality associate degree could lead to great career development.
