Community colleges, also known as two-year colleges, have long been praised for their affordability and accessibility. However, in addition to financial affordability, these schools also offer academic accessibility, making them an attractive option for non-traditional students looking to further their education.
One such student is Irena Čajková, originally from Nymburk, who found herself in Chicago after getting married. Upon returning to the United States, her American husband encouraged her to pursue higher education to avoid a lifetime of work in a restaurant. Despite having completed two semesters at the Pedagogical Faculty of Charles University in Prague, the recognition of her foreign education required excessive paperwork in the U.S. This led her to start fresh at the College of DuPage, where no proof of high school completion was necessary to begin her studies.
One key factor contributing to the success of non-traditional students at community colleges is the flexibility in scheduling and the wide range of courses offered in all disciplines. Students have the freedom to choose the number of courses they take each quarter or semester, allowing them to accumulate the required credit hours at their own pace. This flexibility enabled Irena to balance her studies with work and avoid taking out student loans.
Furthermore, community colleges often offer scholarships to students who transfer to a four-year university after completing their two-year program. This was the case for Irena, who received a partial scholarship when she transferred to DePaul University in Chicago. While the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a four-year university can be significant, starting at a community college can significantly reduce the overall expenses.
Looking ahead, community colleges may become even more accessible, potentially allowing even the most economically disadvantaged individuals to pursue at least two years of higher education. President-elect Joe Biden has proposed eliminating tuition at state colleges and universities, following in the footsteps of former President Obama, who advocated for free community college tuition five years ago. With Jill Biden, an educator herself, expected to play a key role in advising the president on education policy, the future of community colleges looks promising.
In conclusion, community colleges offer a valuable pathway to higher education for individuals like Irena Čajková, who may not have had the opportunity to pursue a degree through traditional means. With their affordability, academic accessibility, and potential for further advancement, community colleges continue to play a vital role in shaping the educational landscape in the United States.