I think it's a GREAT thing that you turned your life around. It takes people well into their late twenties to realize what you did. And that will certainly show when you're applying for jobs. I go to a community college and I LOVE IT. I'd much rather go to a CC than a University.
For one, it's a lot cheaper. I save around $10,00 a semester.
I don't like how classes run at universities. I like how I get to have one on one time with the professors. We communicate VERY easily.. There's about 100 less people in a class at a CC rather than a University. It's much easier for the professors to devote their time to EACH student. They actually know your name.
I save a lot of money by being able to live at home while going to college AND working full time.
It's the same education you'd receive at a University, but it does look more "prestige" if you attend a University.
Either way, you're still furthering your education.
Like others have mentioned, you can still transfer to a university after 2 years. It's a smart way to go, IMO.
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Game on, Bitch!