Which is a better idea for college?

That would be a great idea if you can cut out as much of the GE Requirements at a community college, so that way you do not have to worry about it when you are attending a University. CSUN is nice but I would rather go to a UC instead. Even though UCs are expensive, I think you would get more out of your education then if you would go to a CSUs. You seem like a smart cookie, so I do not think you would be studying 24/7 at UC. It's all about getting the college experience. Maybe you should look at UCLA.