What are some good community colleges in St. Louis?

I'm considering starting at a community college in St. Louis before transferring to a four-year university. Can anyone recommend some of the better community colleges in the area? Any specific programs or resources I should look out for?

In the St. Louis area, you have a few community colleges that are highly regarded for various programs and resources. Here's a brief overview of some noteworthy options:

1. St. Louis Community College (SLCC) - This is the largest community college district in Missouri and one of the largest in the United States. It has multiple campuses across the region. They have diverse program offerings ranging from Business and Computer Science to Health Sciences and Technical Education. Their resources include dedicated student services, externally funded programs, and academic support.

2. Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) - Belleville Campus - Although it's across the river in Belleville, Illinois, SWIC is another good option. The college provides career programs, transfer programs, adult education, and community services. It's known for its close-knit community and comprehensive support services.

When considering a community college, look for institutions that emphasize student success and support, have strong relationships with four-year universities (for a smoother transfer process), offer opportunities for internships or experiential learning, and have robust offerings in your fields of interest. Additionally, check if the college has been accredited by a recognized accrediting body. This ensures that the school meets certain academic standards and that credits are more likely to be accepted by four-year colleges or universities.

Be sure to visit each college, if possible, and talk to admissions, current students, and alumni to get a feel for the community, the support, and the resources available to you. Seek out those that align best with your intended academic and career paths, as well as your personal needs and preferences.