Why not begin your college education in
the U.S.A. where more than 40 percent of Americans do? At one of
the 1,100 local community colleges. Community Colleges in the United
States are the great unsung heroes of American Higher Education.
In fact, even for Americans and certainly for those overseas, they
are not just unsung. Their importance is frequently unknown. These
colleges in every state are the best value for the dollar. They
are the most accessible, have reasonable tuition, outstanding faculty
and convenient locations. Anyone with a high school diploma can
be considered for admission to a community college.
The classes are small and the faculty focus on teaching and helping
students learn. The teachers are interested in making sure that
students have the important skills to get jobs or transfer to a
higher level of education. Unlike in some other countries, these
are not institutions with a narrow focus but rather a comprehensive
perspective.
Community colleges are largely unknown to international students
overseas because they usually do not recruit students outside their
own areas. They are local institutions, focused on serving the local
community and its businesses. However, international students are
very well known to community colleges. There are now over 200,000
international students at over 500 community colleges around the
U.S.A.
Why are community colleges ideal places for international students?
More than half of all community colleges offer English as Second
language (ESL). The campuses have friendly environments where people
get to know one another and different cultures. A major theme for
community colleges is lifelong learning. At most schools, students
are more mature and are getting their education while they are employed.
Most community colleges offer small classes, with 20 to 30 students.
Faculty are chosen and evaluated based on how well they teach, not
on their research or publications. Community colleges also have
many services designed to help students begin their careers. Hundreds
of these colleges have international programs that enrich the campus,
the community and local businesses. They are globally aware and
want to establish cultural and business ties with other nations.
Community colleges have been specially designated to provide people
with the skills needed for the growing high technology and health
care fields. There are also strong relationships with many local
businesses. In fact, many teachers at community colleges come from
local businesses. These part-time instructors have direct, working
knowledge of the latest developments in computers, telecommunications,
biomedical technology, financial services, marketing and advertising.
All these advantages make a community college in the U.S.A. the
best place to start your global education.
Authors: Len Lazarick and Margaret Mohler
This article first appeared in Studying Abroad magazine
