I need help deciding community college or university.

<p>Earlier this year, I applied at wayne state university, I got accepted and all. Then I had to take the placement test, I knew I would do bad in it since I haven't taken chemistry since sophomore year and math since junior year in high school. So I failed both placements, and got placed into remedial classes. Now I feel bad about the whole situation and my self esteem is quite low. But I can still attend this university, since I got some good amount of money from financial aid and grants. But I just don't think I'm ready for this university. I'm horrible in chemistry and math and I really planned on majoring in computer science. So now I'm thinking about attending this community college near by (Macomb community) which will allow me to transfer to Wayne state in 2 years and Wayne will accept no more than 89 credit hours in transfer. I'm thinking that I'll able to get better in math and chem if I'm in a community college since I hear it's easier. But here's the other problem, if I attend the community college, I lose some grant money from the university ($3,355 for fall and winter semester combined for every year) that I could be receiving if I don't go to community college. Also the idea of transferring credits and attending a 2 year community college then having to attend an university for 4 more years seems a hassle/complicated to me. The idea of placement exams scare me, and I've read that if I do transfer to wayne in two years, I'll have to take a placement exam again which I'm afraid I'll fail. </p>

<p>Other than that, if I attend the university, I'll have problems with transportation, I'll have to travel 40 minutes back and forth since I can't afford to stay at dorms. I'm also worried that if I don't attend university now, I may end up paying a lot more after I transfer than I'll be able to now. Also all my other friends are attending universities, which really brings down my self esteem since my parents seem to be nagging to me about how I failed to get full ride like many of their friend's kids. I already applied at the community college, attended orientation and stuff, but tomorrow I have the Wayne state orientation, if I don't attend tomorrow, I won't have to go to wayne state ..what should I do?? community or university??!?</p>

<p>You really left it to the last minute. I don’t know why you are concerned about Wayne State classes. They are going to put you into classes to allow you to build up your skills in those classes to the level they expect, I’m sure it will all come back to you. That doesn’t sound any harder than CC classes. But if the CC classes are really easier you aren’t doing yourself a favor because it won’t prepare you well enough.</p>

<p>Computer science major requires advanced math classes, so you have to learn the basics very well. If you aren’t strong in math, or aren’t able to get strong and pass the advanced classes, you can’t do a CS major. Did you check the classes required for it?</p>

<p>With either option, you will have the same result of graduating from Wayne state. It seems a shame to give up the aid that you have. It may be possible to schedule your classes so you attend M W F. Not sure, but that would make for busy days. </p>

<p>I don’t know why the option of going to CC came into play after you are already admitted to a 4 year and can afford it. Of course do that if it makes you comfortable and you want to save the commute for 2 years. I personally think you are better off to immerse yourself into the 4 year school and get over being scared. I’m sure you will do fine.</p>

<p>If your parents bring up again about the full rides, just tell them that ship has sailed and that you’d appreciate them being supportive in your current endeavor.</p>

<p>Commuting 40 miles each way several times a week through those long, snowy, Michigan winters may not be the smartest way to go. How much closer is the CC? What you save by commuting there could be set aside to help pay for living on or near campus for the last two years.</p>

<p>As for the financial aid, speak with the people at the university. Ask them what happens if you attend the community college for two years, and then transfer. If your family’s financial situation remains unchanged, and the aid formulas that the university uses remain unchanged, will you still be eligible for they type of aid that currently is on offer? Or is it the kind of aid that is only available if you start there as a freshman? Even if it would change for that reason, do the math. Your own out-of-pocket costs for the four years might not be different for the two routes to your bachelor’s degree.</p>

<p>kelsmom and romanigypseyes both are very familiar with the aid situation at the Michigan universities. As soon as you have enough posts to send a PM (I think you need 15), search for them, click on the blue username in the posting, and follow the instructions so that you can get their input.</p>

<p>Wishing you all the best!</p>