We don't disagree. I should have made it more clear that I was just stating what the people at the community colleges are probably trying to accomplish.
I'm fortunate to have a really good junior college near me. I wasn't able to convince either of my daughters to attend. They both wanted to attend a full university. They got tuition and expenses but no possibility of a later fancy wedding.
The eldest daughter will certainly get a payback for her engineering degree. The younger; well, it's too early to say.
Sounds like your daughters made the right decision. I am impressed! Their willingness to forgo the fancy and “nice to have” for the practical means that you have brought them up right. I am betting that they will be very successful. They have the right attitude.
What people don't realize is that College represents huge sacrifices; financially and personally. While friends are enjoying their weekends, partying, and beginning their lives, the student is stuck away in some hole (library, basement,...) stressed out and studying.