Community colleges with honors programs? Weren't they designed to be egalitarian and remedial?

Well, yes, but times have changed. Look beneath the surface of these colleges and you'll find plenty of good students preparing to transfer to top four-year institutions. They're getting personal attention, sharpening skills and saving money in the process.

The option makes sense for students unsure about what or where they want to study. Why invest so much on a hunch? Spend a year or two figuring things out---then make a wiser choice.