By Katelyn Needham/ editor-in-chief
Collegian file photo
Students pack the halls at TCC campuses, each with a different background and purpose for taking classes here.
Former SE student Carly Grant attended both TCC and the University of Texas at Arlington simultaneously while working on her degree for biomechanical engineering.
“Tuition at TCC is much cheaper than UTA,” she said. “I pay completely out of pocket, and I have gotten quite a few scholarships but no government funding. I am in my senior year and have no debt. I have worked full time and gone to school full time.”
Aside from the cheaper tuition, classes at TCC allowed Grant to get involved.
“You don’t have to start in student government or other clubs as a freshman at TCC like you do with UTA,” she said. “I was able to volunteer and help with things and actually be a part of the community. I would recommend also taking classes at TCC while at a four-year because it helps financially, and the support system you get at TCC is great.”
Grant advises anyone thinking about attending a four-year university and TCC at the same time to only take classes at one campus a day and to work on time management skills.
“Math and science classes are more hands-on at TCC,” former NW student Garrett Dodd said. “So any subject you struggle in would be smarter to take there than at a four-year where the classes are bigger.”
Dodd attended both TCC and the University of North Texas.
“Taking classes at TCC helped boost my GPA and saved me money,” he said. “I would definitely recommend it to other people, NW Campus particularly, because of the lake and all the fresh air.”
Former student Brittney Miller attended classes at TCC between semesters at other schools for her degree.
“I go to The College of Health Care Professions now, and the teachers here aren’t as understanding or flexible,” she said. “There isn’t a lot of one-on-one interaction with the students. Start registering as soon as possible for classes so you can coordinate your schedule better. It helps a lot with travel and keeping your sanity.”
Grant and Dodd had similar experiences with teacher interactions while attending TCC campuses and universities.
“It’s more personal at TCC. You get to know the teachers better,” Dodd said. “Because you get to know them, it’s easier to communicate to them when you need help, and that’s one of the best parts about going there. They actually want you to succeed.”
