"An alternative to prohibitively expensive universities, community colleges are hot. Known for their service to "non-traditional" adult students, these schools are now popular with recent high school graduates who view them as a springboard to a four-year college or as a fast-track to a career. Over 10 million students annually, including 55 percent of first-time freshmen, enroll in community colleges. This unique guide discusses the benefits of attending a community college and covers how to apply, what to expect from the community college experience, how to afford it, where a community college education can lead, and more.

Susan Stafford, PhD (Alexandria, VA), has worked in the federal government and as a fundraising and communications professional in institutions of higher education. She draws from a network of real-life community college administrators, faculty, and students for advice and information to make this book objective and helpful."