For many 2009 is going to be a year of decisions, for some it will be what will I do after high school; for others what will I do after college; and even those who are saying did I make the right choice and pick the right school.

You have made the decision to go to college, but which college will it be and will it be a two-year or a four-year college?  There are four important factors cost, type of career, academic environment and location that you should spend ample time researching to determine what is best for you. In this article we will focus on cost.

One of the best ways to narrow down your options is to do a comparison based on the four factors above. Ask anyone and you will receive a plethora of opinions based on their experience. What is best and beneficial for you as a student will make the process less overwhelming.

The first two years of college education at any institution really involves taking general education courses which will affect your career choice later on. There is a difference between a two year and a four year institution. So, your college planning should be broken down like this:

First, there is a major difference in cost between the two types of institutions. If cost is an important factor remember you must be realistic about just how much expenses you will incur. Thought should be given to tuition, room and board, books, computer, and various living expenses.

As far as cost is concerned, the two year college is almost always the less expensive college option. Individual classes are less expensive, and options for attending school part-time or less are often more readily available.

Also, will you need an automobile, and if so, how much will gas, insurance, maintenance and parking cost? Many students as well as families do not give ample consideration just for how much school will affect the family unit as a whole. Most often there will be sacrifices made for your education.

Seeking financial aid and scholarships are options although there might be more options if you choose a four year college over a two year college. But remember that what is borrowed will have to be paid back at the end of your college career which could lead to being in debt.

So the question that needs to be asked is the two year college or the four year college of your choice worth the price tag?

Properly weighing this one of four factors also depends on knowledge about you as a student, i.e. your learning abilities? In the next issue we will weigh type of career you are wishing to pursue.

Elder Marquis Boone is the Youth Pastor and Director of R.A.W. (Real Anointed Worshippers) at New Mercies Christian Church (Lilburn, GA), under the leadership of Senior Pastor Jesse Curney, III. He is also the founder of Dream Out Loud, LLC, an organization dedicated to providing young people with practical methods on how to give their dreams an active voice. For more information about Elder Boone, log onto www.dreamoutloudtoday.com or www.therawyouth.com *Elder Boone is a 2009 StreamingFaith.com Guest Columnist.

© Elder Marquis Boone all rights reserved.