<p>My sophomore D chose to attend her financial and academic safety, and is very happy with her choice. As I have recounted in other CC threads, she turned down much higher ranked schools (including two ivies) and had her teachers, counselors (and yes, even H and me, at first) bewildered. But ultimately she chose the school that she felt fit her best, and suited her goals. </p>
<p>By the time Spring came around, with all her acceptances in hand, she decided she wanted a public school; she wanted a diverse environment that would reflect (as much as a college bubble can) the larger, diverse world. She did NOT want to be in an environment where intense academics/intellectual pursuits were the dominant trait – even though that’s her personal comfort zone. She’s a good example of a kid who is enjoying the benefits of being part of an Honors community within a larger university. She also received a full tuition scholarship, and she decided for herself that the benefits of graduating debt-free, and giving herself the f lexibility of more options – working less or more during the school year or summer, traveling, etc – was far more appealing, and practical, than her other options. Her decision, no pressure from parents. She is also thinking about possible grad school, and at the least doesn’t expect or desire to make a lot of money, and is naturally frugal. </p>
<p>So her decision fits totally with who she is and the values she holds. It’s worth repeating again: a financial safety does not have to be seen as a poor sister, a compromise, or a last resort, if it has truly been chosen as a school the student likes for its own sake.</p>