WDYT of taking classes as a non-degree student to "prove myself" and then applying?

Hi,
my question is the same as the title: Should I take classes as a non-degree student to “prove myself” and then apply to colleges/universities? Has anyone else done this? Does this idea seem feasible? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

How long ago did you graduate high school? If recently, are your scores/gpa low and that’s why you feel a need to prove yourself?

It costs about the same either way, so personally I would want credit for my effort and money.

Go to community college that will take transfer credits to your desired 4 year college.
Why would you go through the expense of tuition, textbooks and time spent on the class and not get credit?
Your gpa in high school, SAT/ACT scores, and taking the most rigorous schedule offered in high school is proof enough to colleges that you can do the work.
Your plan is ill advised.

you’ll get credits as a non-degree…I did this w/my CC my 1st year back in school to get my toes wet…have since transferred x2 making it to the upper levels of the US News rankings this last move

Most of the more selective programs for non-traditional students actually require that you have a few classes of recent college experience. Even those that don’t require it will surely appreciate it, as it is the best indicator they have of whether you are ready for college-level study at this time in your life.

Go for it!