Green Forest High School graduate Juana Rodriguez is working to get her associate degree in applied science at North Arkansas College in Harrison, where she says she loves the one-on-one attention with professors and the close-knit student community. When she finishes her associate degree, she’s contemplating staying at NorthArk to get her technical certificate in software development.

Why did you choose a two-year school?
A two-year college is great for students who have full-time or part-time jobs.

What do you like most about your two-year school?
I really appreciate North Arkansas College’s Learning Commons tutoring where teachers help students in every subject.

How do you balance everything?
Balancing work and schoolwork is hard. When I have a break at work, I study and do some of my homework. When I have free time at school, I study all I can at the library. When I go home, I study some more and finish all my homework.

How are you handling the dollars and cents of college life?
I got the federal Pell Grant and work part-time. For me, a two-year college is more affordable than a four-year school.

ADVANTAGES
Two-year colleges allow students to adjust to college life gradually. Plus, students at two-year colleges get the courses they need for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree for less money. Others work toward a certificate in a specific area or a two-year associate degree (again, saving money).

COST
Tuition is less than that of a four-year institution, and many scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available. You save on room and board, too.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Most public two-year colleges have an “open door” admissions policy, which means all you need is a copy of your high school transcript or GED scores — most don’t have a minimum GPA requirement.

HOUSING
Dorms aren’t the norm, so a two-year college may be best if you want to live at home with your parents (and save some money) or try spreading your wings in your own apartment.