SABA , I AM

Community college is often the punchline to jokes about college. For busy moms community college can be a wonderful idea. There are a number of academic and personal benefits to attending a junior college, and these schools eagerly welcome high-achievers. 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. The flexibility and opportunity are great for moms who want to go to school. Started in 2009, the Scholarships for Moms program helps to enroll moms in colleges and universities of all kinds. 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. Being smart with money is a top priority for most students but especially women with children. A $5,000 grant doesn't change that. The tuition at a community college is tens of thousands of dollars cheaper than big 4-year 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. Travel expenses and housing are just a couple of the other necessary expenses that could be covered with the $5,000 grant. Junior colleges are becoming much more diverse and challenging in the level of courses they have. According to a 2002 New York Times article, 168 community colleges maintain honors programs. One particular school in Arizona even had various overseas study opportunities. One 2-year school in the Times article encouraged and provided opportunity to study abroad in various places. Since junior colleges are state- and locally-funded, it helps them as well when they offer intriguing courses and can attract top students. A community college education is well within reach for a mom who has earned an education grant. Attending a junior college allows a mom to save some money even as she has the bonus of a $5,000 mom scholarship. Going to school in a less pressurized environment can greatly affect performance and make achievement seem more attainable. Two years of study and training at a community college has many career benefits.