Seeking: community college faculty/staff/advisors, workforce development professionals We're developing a resource to help prospective students compare the most affordable online associate degrees in 2026. We'd love your perspective on the following (please don't polish your writing with AI): 1. For students weighing an associate degree against other options (e.g., a certificate or jumping into workforce) when does the associate degree win? 2. Which fields of study offer the strongest return on investment at the associate degree level? 3. What's the biggest myth about online associate degrees? 4. Is an online associate program respected by employers or transfer-friendly for students planning to pursue a bachelor's later? 5. What's one piece of advice you'd give someone who is cost-conscious but unsure whether an associate degree is the right move for them? Thanks! Your perspective will help students make smarter, more confident decisions about their education and career path.