subject: Mothers: Community College and You [print this page] To many people junior college isn't "real" school. For women with children, 2-year colleges actually have some tremendous advantages. Two-year colleges present many interesting possibilities for gaining an education. Earning money to go to school is also an important but not impossible task. For a long time 2-year colleges have seemed like schools to go to in order to waste time and money. In reality many community colleges offer stimulating classes and often are right in your back yard. 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. Championed by President Obama in 2009, the Grants for Moms incentive is an effort to help more moms enroll in junior colleges and other schools of their choice. 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. Being smart with money is a top priority for most students but especially women with children. A $5,000 grant doesn't change that. Usually the tuition and fees at a junior college are more than 50% less expensive than many colleges and universities. At a 2-year college, an exceptional SAT score and GPA could earn a full scholarship. This is a significant prize for young moms who still managed to do well in school. Travel expenses and housing are just a couple of the other necessary expenses that could be covered with the $5,000 grant. The course offerings at many community colleges now more closely resemble those at traditional 4-year institutions. 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. One particular school in Arizona even had various overseas study opportunities. Some schools allow students to study subjects like philosophy and cultural art in places around the world. These quality academic opportunities can help students as they work toward further degrees and as they develop their careers. 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. Community colleges can be great training grounds for attendance at 4-year colleges as well as for entering the work force. Two years of study and training at a community college has many career benefits.
