As a freshman, the idea of going to college is daunting, but still far away. Sophomore year, it’s a bit closer, but still not a subject one needs to think about all that much. However, once a student hits junior and senior year, they’re on the cusp of their shift into the college life.

The question is, do you take a chance and apply to the four year college of your dreams? Or play it safe, save money, and go to Saddleback, Irvine Valley, or any other community college for a few years and then transfer into said four year?

There are pros and cons to both choices. One should consider cost, distance, and even just the experience students could have while enrolled there.

According to an article posted on the College Board website, going to a community college saves students large amounts of money and allows them to try out college before committing to it. Students are also given a more flexible schedule and better proximity to home. They may prepare to transfer to a four-year university, and even try their hand in any careers they’re interested in.

Although the cost of a four-year is much higher than that of a community college, there are some benefits to to spending all four years at a university. A website by the name of “College View”, says that larger universities offer a larger plethora of classes and opportunities to further education and narrow one’s degree. While community colleges only offer the basic classes, going to a four-year can give students better opportunities to focus more on their degree and not have to worry about taking menial classes that really don’t matter to their future career.

On the other hand, this route would only work for those that know for sure what they’re doing. If someone changes their mind on what they want to major in, it may result in them transferring to another four-year because their current school doesn’t offer classes in the major that they care for.

For example, if someone wanted to become a lawyer, went to Stanford straight out of high school, but then decided that they suddenly wanted to be a surgeon, Stanford wouldn’t be the right school for them to pursue their newly desired career and they would waste an entire year’s tuition.

However, specialized classes is not the only upside to going to a proper university. When students go to a community college, sometimes, it can feel like just another repeat of high school. This can cause students to become lazy, slack off on work, and postpone their transfer because they haven’t gotten enough credits. Some may even drop out of community college because they can’t keep focused and don’t feel like they’re in an environment where they can thrive.

Choosing the correct college to go to requires a lot of thought and consideration and if a community college seems the most practical and is the best fit for a student, said student should seriously consider the option. Contrary to some beliefes, two year colleges to do not equate to insufficiency.