By Swami Hinojosa
Editor-in-Chief
In today’s society, a lingering stigma remains: attending a community college is often seen as something less than.
While this perception is not always spoken aloud, it carries real consequences. It can discourage students from pursuing a valuable and accessible path to higher education, causing many to overlook one of the most affordable and flexible options available.
But is this perception based on truth, or is it simply a misunderstanding? More importantly, how can we begin to shift the narrative?
Community colleges, such as Broward College, are often viewed as backup options or second choices. There is an unspoken idea that students at these schools were not good enough for a university or too poor to attend a traditional college.
In reality, nearly 40 percent of all undergraduate students in the United States attend community colleges, according to the American Association of Community Colleges. These institutions are spaces for academic growth, career preparation, and upward mobility. Yet, students who choose this route often face subtle judgment or feel overlooked.
“I remember telling someone I was going to a two-year college,” says student Andres Linares. “They responded, ‘Well, at least you’ll save money.’ I felt like they didn’t see the value beyond the “discount” .”
This kind of mindset is more than dismissive. It is harmful to students and to the broader educational landscape. Community colleges are intentionally built to be accessible, practical, and local. They support a wide range of students, including recent high school graduates, first-generation college-goers, working adults, parents, and individuals returning to school to explore new careers.
Some high school students are even earning associate degrees before receiving their diplomas.
Many use community college as a stepping stone, transferring to four-year universities after completing foundational coursework. Others enter directly into well-paying, high-demand trades. This path is not one of settling. It is a thoughtful and strategic choice. At a time when student debt continues to rise and the job market grows increasingly uncertain, community colleges stand out as one of the smartest options available.
According to the College Board, the average annual tuition at a public two-year college is around $3,900, compared to nearly $10,000 for public universities, with private colleges costing significantly more. This difference matters. It means students can pursue a quality education, often with transferable credits, without being overwhelmed by debt.
For many, that kind of financial freedom is life-changing. Changing the narrative begins with sharing more stories and raising more voices. We need to celebrate successful community college graduates, highlight the variety of opportunities available through two-year programs, and emphasize the flexibility these institutions provide. Whether it is single parents balancing family and school, or first-generation students finding their way in unfamiliar systems, community colleges play a critical role in expanding access to education.
Educators, media, and students can all help break the stigma. By being open about our paths and experiences, and by sharing real statistics and outcomes, we help show that there is no single way to succeed. Community colleges are not places for people who failed to cut it.
They are real choices for those who are focused on smart planning and practical outcomes. In a constantly changing world, the best decisions are often the ones that challenge old ways of thinking. As students currently navigating the community college experience, we know it is not always easy. It can be especially difficult when surrounded by dual-enrollment students who speak confidently about their plans. At some point, reality sets in, and you understand the amount of effort, organization, and persistence it takes to move forward in higher education.
Avoiding future financial stress is not just responsible. It becomes necessary. Still, through every challenge, we continue. You made the decision to try, and that is powerful. Let the reason you enrolled remind you why you are here. Your future self, more confident, more skilled, and more prepared, will be proud of what you accomplished. And be ready for what you are going to achieve!
Illustration by Sara Fuentes/The Observer
