Hillsborough’s class of 2025 graduation is approaching quickly. While the class of 25’ seniors prepare to graduate, knowing that the next four years of their lives are at stake with their education and finances. Choosing whether or not to go away for school or to choose community college is a huge decision every senior has to make. Factors include staying in or out of state, dealing with the dorming process and finding their perfect roommate, meeting tons of new people, paying high fees and so much more. Students need to decide whether or not to flee their hometown, leaving family and friends behind. It makes them think: Is going away the right option? Or is staying local the financially smarter option? Four-year college or community college. Both are options seniors choose from.
“I think going away for college can be a great idea if you are ready to start over, get away from things that maybe didn’t serve you the way you thought they would, and recreate yourself into the person you want to be,” said senior Maggie Comiskey. “Personally, I believe that everyone should travel and have a change of scenery from a place that you’ve lived for a long time because it can open your eyes to different possibilities that you might’ve not encountered before.” Students may choose to go away to break routines, develop a new lifestyle or simply switch things up. Several students agree that going away to college for a fresh start is a great idea. “I am planning to attend a university when I graduate,” senior Ashley Bevacqua said. “I believe going away for college will be freeing and give me space. I want to go away from home to discover more than just what I’m used to in my hometown. I think it will be a great learning opportunity for me.”
On the other hand, community college is always a great alternative if students want to save up money and prevent debt. Some people also may not feel quite ready to move away and attend a large university, and staying close to home while getting core credits checked off is an important benefit to consider with community college.
Some seniors shared their plan to attend community college. “I plan on going to community. I want to live at home while I go to school. It would also be cheaper if I went to community college,” senior Patrick Mrugala said.
Students point to size as a major factor for college as well. “I chose community college over a larger university because of a variety of reasons, but mainly because it’s more affordable and because as someone who’s not social, community college has smaller classrooms that give you more of a personalized space to learn and more access to the faculty when you need help,” senior Savannah Serrano said.
College Counselor Aimee Thomson often gives advice to students regarding college information including the pros and cons of a four-year university vs community college. Pricing for college is extremely expensive and comparing that to a community college that is placed at a way less value. “Pro: Price. One year at community college, living at home, is about $7000. Living on campus at a NJ public college has a price tag around $35,000. Out of state publics are almost all over $50,000 – and privates can go over $90,000 per year. Two years at community college can help you save money for that four-year college in years three and four. You can take the same introductory classes at a fraction of the price.” Thomson said.
However, in comparison to, a 4-year college allows you the benefit to get away from your normal lifestyle. “Pro: Opportunity to have more independence – if you’re looking away from home, you’re going to be forced to be ‘on your own’ more than if you are still living at home,” Thomson said.
Even though college decisions may bring tons of stress, in the end, the whole process, and senior year, will be a year many remember and reflect on throughout their lives. Choosing a college path brings tons of opportunities including internships, club options, new people and living situations. At this point, students may not know where they are headed for college, but many plan to make their decisions by May 1. Popularly known as Decision Day, Boro seniors will dress in swag representing their school, showing the various destinations the senior students are headed. Decision day coming up for seniors on May 1st, 2025, where students will show off their school they are heading to for the next couple of years.
