Attending a community college is a fantastic option for any teen who is planning to pursue furthering their education beyond high school. Community colleges offer many young people an opportunity to gain experiences and become credible in a variety of fields like information technology, business management, and even teaching.

According to a 2010 survey conducted by the American Association of Community Colleges in Washington D.C., the enrollment of American community colleges had increased since 2007 by 20%.

This percentage consisted of an estimated total of 8.2 million students over those past three years. This is 1.4 million more students who had enrolled since 2007 when the recession began.

With hundreds of colleges like this across the country in every state, these results show that many students are taking advantage of the benefits these universities provide.

Many people have gotten their starts at community colleges, including an Academy Award nominated actor, the first female space shuttle commander, the governor of Hawaii, and the president of the NAACP.

Still think you need further convincing?

Read on to discover just how these colleges can help you pursue a life of fulfillment and educational gratification.

1) Tuition fees are much lower than four-year institutions. One reason for the growing popularity of community colleges is their low tuition. It’s a way to afford college without accumulating really high debt.

As a result, students spend two years at a community college and then transfer to a four-year college. Because of this, they spend less money for the same bachelor's degree as their classmates. The colleges also accept and award scholarships and grants.

2) Students who can’t afford on or off campus housing or cannot relocate can attend courses while staying in their local communities.

Community colleges usually tend to the needs of locals of all ages and backgrounds.

3) You can pursue an associate’s degree and transfer to a four year university. By doing this, you’ll be one step ahead of many of your peers who are only pursuing their bachelor’s degree.

An associate’s degree can be obtained in a variety of programs like nursing, political science, and culinary arts. Having an extra degree will place you a step above everyone else.

In two years you can receive training for a fulfilling and well-paying career.

4) Community colleges have smaller classes that are about the size of a high school classroom.

Compared to a four year university that might have classes with 100+ students, a class at a small community college may have at least 20 people.

Choosing the right school is very important for a young teen. Don’t be so quick to cross community college off your list.

Even though these schools have limited extracurricular activities and residential housing, it is important to know that these schools offer a wide range of educational opportunities.

These opportunities will ultimately benefit you in the long run and open many doors so you can live a life of fulfillment and happiness.