Fall tends to be the time of year when most high school students (especially seniors) and parents begin thinking about college and university plans. It can be a difficult choice for students and the discussion often affects the whole family. That is why early planning is key to making the best decision. Applications for universities, especially those most selective, are due typically around Jan. 1. Regardless of where students choose to attend, those looking to attend in the fall should complete their college applications by April. For the best opportunities for state and federal financial aid, students should have their applications completed and turned in by March 1.
There are many resources that help students navigate what can be a time-consuming and stressful process. For example, the U.S. News and World Report produced an article I really liked entitled “10 Steps to Choosing the Right College” back in 2022. Though not all-encompassing, most people will tell you to look for the following things when making the decision: accreditation status, program rankings, cost and financial aid availability, campus life and extracurriculars, size, support services, safety, licensure pass rates, and job placement rates.
For each student, many suitable colleges would love to have them enroll. It is important to select an institution that provides each student with what they are looking for and is uniquely positioned to meet their needs.
Here are a few things to consider and that make the CNCC experience unique. Along with small class sizes, low cost, financial aid and scholarship options and an “A” rating in safety by Niche, CNCC offers the following:
– CNCC students can enjoy a university-type experience on a community college budget with residence halls, student life and intercollegiate athletics.
– In a 2020 study, CNCC ranked #5 in the country among community college graduates who earn the most money after graduation. Early-career pay was listed as $55,800 and mid-career pay was listed as $78,100
– Unique CTE and transferrable Arts and Science Courses
– 100% free tuition to Rangely residents and 50% tuition scholarship to Moffat County residents. Through 2025, free tuition, fees and course materials for nursing, early childhood education and National Park Ranger students.
– Our use of Open Educational Resources (OER) instead of requiring students to buy expensive textbooks saves our students hundreds of dollars each semester.
– With all five biomes in our region, geology and other science classes utilize our environment and go caving and hiking as part of their experience.
– Physical education and outdoor experiences include ice climbing, ropes course mastery, rafting, scuba diving, caving and hiking.
– Each career and technical education program offered is in-demand with most students seeking employment finding it in their field before graduation.
We wish you luck in your college search as this is one of the most important decisions you will make in carving out the direction of your future.
By DR. LISA JONES
CNCC President
