If you're worried about college tuition in the U.S., starting at a community college is a really smart move.

I looked into what options are available around Glendale and Burbank.

There are no public community colleges within the city of Burbank. The Burbank Unified School District (BUSD) only oversees high schools, and community colleges fall under separate school districts. However, there are conveniently located community colleges right next to Burbank, making it easy for residents to access them.

The closest option is Glendale Community College (GCC). It's located at 1500 N. Verdugo Rd, Glendale, CA 91208, and it's less than a 10-minute drive from Burbank. GCC offers a variety of programs in humanities, natural sciences, business, arts, nursing, and CTE (Career Technical Education). Tuition is incredibly affordable at $46 per unit for California residents. This is the real value of community college.

Los Angeles Valley College (LAVC) is also a nearby option. It's located at 5800 Fulton Ave, Valley Glen, CA 91401, about 15 minutes from Burbank. As part of the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD), California residents can attend at similarly low tuition rates. It has programs related to film, TV, and digital arts, making it a great choice for those interested in the entertainment industry.

One of the biggest advantages of community colleges is the transfer route to UC and CSU. After completing a two-year program with good grades, you can transfer to UCLA, UC Berkeley, UCSB, UC San Diego, or Cal State universities. This allows you to earn the same degree at a much lower cost than going directly to a four-year university. You can meet transfer requirements through the IGETC (Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum).

They are also open to adult learners. You can take evening or online classes while working, and there are no age restrictions. Community colleges have many students in their 20s, 30s, and even 40s. It's a perfect option for those looking to learn new skills or make a career change.

There are also ESL (English as a Second Language) programs for those who need help with English. Both GCC and LAVC offer ESL courses at various levels. You can improve your English skills while earning credits, and later transition into a regular degree program. This can be a realistic starting point for those who have just immigrated from Korea.

Burbank Adult School is also available. It offers programs for obtaining high school diplomas, vocational training, and English courses. It's suitable for those who need more basic education than what community colleges provide.

It operates under the Burbank Unified School District, and you can find more information at burbankusd.org.