College Basics
“You have to know your career before you go to college.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 Most students start college undecided. College is where you explore different careers and figure out what fits you.
“Only really smart students can go to college.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 College is about effort, persistence, and using support—not just being “naturally smart.”
“Dual enrollment classes count as real college credit.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 These classes go on your college transcript and can count toward a degree.
“College is too expensive for most people.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 Financial aid, grants, and community college make college affordable for many students.
“College is only for students going to a 4-year university.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 Community colleges, certificates, and trade programs are all great options.
“You can take college classes while still in high school.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 Programs like dual enrollment let you earn college credit early—this saves time and money later.
“Getting help in college means you’re failing.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 The most successful students ask for help. Tutoring and support services are there for a reason.
“Dual enrollment grades don’t really matter.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 These grades affect your GPA and follow you into college—so they matter from day one.
“You can save money by starting at a community college.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 Tuition is much lower, and you can transfer later to a university.
“You can change your major in college.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 Students change majors all the time as they discover new interests.
“You have to move away to go to college.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 Many students stay local and attend community college, then transfer if they want.
“If you mess up in high school, you can never go to college.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 There are many pathways, especially through community college, where you can start fresh.
“Dual enrollment can help you finish college faster.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 Earning credits early can reduce the number of classes you need later.
“You have to pay for college all by yourself.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 There are grants, scholarships, and financial aid to help cover costs.
“There is only one ‘right’ path after high school.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 There are many paths—college, trade school, work, and more.
“College classes are harder, but you get more support.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 Classes can be more challenging, but colleges offer tutoring, counseling, and support programs to help you succeed.
“If no one in your family went to college, it can feel harder to figure it out.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 It can feel harder, but colleges have programs and people (like counselors & advisors!) to support first-generation students.
“Dual enrollment is only for straight-A students.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 It’s for students who are motivated and ready to try—not just perfect students.
“Good grades can help you get money for college.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 Many scholarships are based on academics, effort, or involvement.
“Community college can be a step toward a university.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 Many students transfer after completing their first two years.
“College students only go to class and don’t have homework.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 College often has more independent work—reading, studying, and assignments outside of class.
“You have to be good at everything to succeed in college.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 No one is good at everything. You grow your skills over time and focus on your strengths.
“Taking a college class in high school means you won’t have support.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 You still have teachers, advisors, and support systems to help you succeed.
“Dual enrollment can save you money in the future.”
✅ What is a fact?
💬 You’re earning credits now, which means fewer classes to pay for later.
“College students have more free time than high school students.”
✅ What is a myth?
💬 You have more freedom—but also more responsibility and time management.