Junior College or a University?

For some it is a difficult decision between attending a junior college or going straight to 4 year university. You've never been to college, you've just graduated high school no wonder you can't decide. To make it easier I've compiled a list of the advantages and disadvantages of each choice:

Advantages of Junior College

• Junior college tuition is much less expensive than 4-year university tuition.
• Junior college is easier to get into than most universities.
• It's an easier transition from high school because junior colleges are generally smaller and have greater teacher to student ratios due to smaller class size.
• Everybody knows everybody.
• Your academic advisor will know you personally and help you make your schedule face to face.
• Getting into the classes you need/want will be considerably easier.
• Scholarships are easier to get at a junior college.

Advantages of a 4-year University

• You can join a fraternity or sorority as a freshman and start a great social network.
• You will be introduced to more culture than you would be at a junior college because there are so many more people at a university and most of them are from all over the world.
• You have a greater variety of electives to choose from.
• You're truly independent here away from your parents and home town.
• Better night life.
• 90% of your professors have Ph.D.'s in their field.
• A degree from a University carries more weight.

Disadvantages of Junior College

• Most of your instructors are not as well educated as the professors you would have at a university.
• If you wanted to join a sorority or fraternity, it would be difficult for you to get into the one you want coming from a junior college.
• The night life at junior college isn't much different from the night life you've experienced in high school.
• You have fewer choices when it comes to electives.
• Not all classes are transferable.

Disadvantages of a 4-year university

• Number 1 hands down is the cost. You could get your first 2 years of college credit thousands of dollars cheaper at a junior college.
• It can be overwhelming for some. Being away from home around so many new and different people can be disorienting.
• It's tougher to get into classes that you want because of all the competition you have with other students. To put this in balance, universities give priority to juniors and seniors to ensure that you graduate on time.
• You have to work harder to stick out in your teachers' minds (larger class sizes).
• Tougher competition for scholarships.
• You make out your schedule online rather than with a person typically.

This list is by no means complete due to the fact that each person's motives and financial situations are different. I hope this post brings to light some issues that will help you choose the best option for you so that you get what you want from your college experience.