COMMON  MYTHS  ABOUT  COLLEGE

I can’t go to college because nobody in my family ever has.

In every family, someone has to go first. Being the first can be hard, because you may have to explain why going to college is important to you. However, on the flip side, being first is likely to be a source of pride for you and your family.

I’ve been in school for 12 years. I’m ready for a good job.

College is nothing like high school or junior high. In college, you pick a major so most of your classes will be about a subject you enjoy. As for the good job, statistics show that the best jobs and highest salaries go to college graduates.

I can’t go to college because I can’t afford it.

Most college students receive financial aid to help pay for college, and most aid is need-based. So, the less money you have, the more aid you might receive. Plus, New Mexico has one of the lowest tuition rates in the country for in-state residents, due to the lottery fund.

I can’t go. I don’t know how to apply or where I want to go.

You can let your high school counselor or the staff at the Bridges Project know that you would like to attend college fairs, tours, or College Summit. At Bridges, there are applications and informational brochures from numerous colleges available for use by anyone interested in attending college. Your high school counselor or the staff at Bridges can also help you get any materials you need and assist you through the application process.

I can’t go to college—I don’t know what I want to do with my life.

Thousands of college freshmen haven’t decided on a major or on a career. College can help you by exposing you to many different subjects and allowing you to explore potential career options. According to a recent study, liberal arts majors are in high demand in the current workforce.

I can’t go to college. I just won’t fit in.

Most colleges have students representing many socio-economic, geographic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds. Feeling homesick? Look for people with your interests or backgrounds in the Hispanic club, on the basketball court, or in a Native American study group. College is also a great place to meet new kinds of people with different life-styles. The more people you understand and feel comfortable with, the better prepared you’ll be for the world after college.

College will be too hard for me.

Most students worry about being good enough for college, so you’re not alone. You can help prepare yourself for college by learning how to study while in high school. Most good students have strategies for studying. If you still feel like you need help, most professors are really helpful and there are tutoring services available on most college campuses.

I can’t go to college because I am a parent. I’m worried there won’t be childcare providers that I can afford.

Most universities have on-campus childcare providers and offer low-cost family housing to registered students. In our area, New Mexico Highlands University is known for their affordable childcare services and on-campus
family housing.

I’m too old to go to college.

You’re never too old to go back to school. Many of the clients that Bridges serves are mothers who have opted to return to school. In addition, there are many on-campus services and organizations designed to meet the needs of older students.

I can’t go to college. I’m very close to my family and my presence is really needed at home and in my community.

Fortunately, Northern New Mexico offers a variety of higher educational opportunities right in your own community! The University of New Mexico in Taos, Northern New Mexico Community College in Española, and Luna Vocational Technical Institute in Las Vegas offer two-year degree programs in a wide variety of fields. In addition, New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas offers four-year and graduate degree programs covering a broad spectrum of disciplines. On-line courses and degree programs from colleges throughout the country are becoming increasingly popular.

email us at  info@bridgesproject.net
Bridges project for education
PO Box 308  Taos, NM 87571   505-758-5074
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