“A Strong, Viable Path”: QCC President Pushes Back on Community College Misconceptions

 

Dr. Pedraja pointed out that QCC provides an affordable, high-quality education with dedicated faculty, small class sizes, and strong student support systems. The education in foundational courses at community colleges was described as identical to that at universities, with the added benefits of smaller classes taught by qualified faculty with PhDs, rather than graduate students.  “They’re not going to teach algebra 101 any different in Harvard than they would at Quinsigamond. The only difference is that we have very qualified faculty who have PhD and the students are learning from those faculty members. And in a smaller classroom, instead of a graduate student in a big lecture hall…” He argued that standard graduation rate metrics are skewed because they do not accurately account for the typical community college student profile, which includes part-time students who work and support families.

 

He emphasized that community colleges are crucial economic engines for their communities, providing pathways to well-paying jobs and successful transfers to four-year institutions. Starting at a community college is a financially sound decision that can save students tens of thousands of dollars and help them graduate with less debt.

 

The conversation also covered practical information about upcoming events at QCC, including Accepted Students Day and the start of fall registration, urging students to register early due to high demand. QCC’s Accepted Students Day is on April 9th, registration for new students began on April 13th.