Ask Zsyrii : Is a Dream School Worth a Price Tag?
May 18, 2017
Should I go to the school of my dreams for a higher cost, or go to a more affordable school that isn’t my top choice?
– Sincerely Indecisive
Dear Indecisive,
Your future plays a big part in this decision. I suggest you think about whether attending a school with lower cost will help you in the long run and if the school will provide the ambiance that you want. If you decide to attend the less expensive school, will you still be able to excel in your studies and have a good social life?
A pro’s and con’s list comparing the two schools may be a good idea to expand your idea of which school will be a true fit for you, without focusing so much on the money aspect. Discussing your ideas and plans with your parents or family would also help you narrow it down. I’m sure that there have been people in the same position you’re in now. Try finding someone you know who has been in a similar situation and ask for some type of advice on how to make your decision.
Thinking about yourself, what you want from your college experience, and what you want as a outcome from school overall should help you narrow down your decision. Look at your financial situation and decide first whether you need to focus on the money aspect or look at the school overall to find a better fit.
Good Luck!
Bianca • Sep 4, 2017 at 8:12 pm
Hi Indecisive,
I graduated from Roosevelt back in 2012 and it’s been a year since graduating college. My senior year of high school, I remember the long days thinking about where I’d end up and where I wanted to go. And the most challenging part was trying to connect the two: was the school I wanted the same school I needed to succeed? What does success even mean to me? I didn’t know the answer then, not until I began doing college tours. By that point, the University of Maryland seemed like the most rational choice. Almost everyone else thought so, too. But not until stepping foot on the grounds of a tiny, middle-of-nowhere liberal arts college in Lewiston, Maine, did I realize the answer to those burning questions. Success means going after what you want. Forget achievement, forget medals, dollar bills, plaques, and anything/everything money can buy. Success means chasing a gut feeling, even if you fail. My gut feeling told me that Bates College was my home. An expensive one at that, but a home nonetheless. I wish you the best of luck deciding.