<p>I’m thinking a GAP year might be a good option if you are this upset. You are trying to make a logical decision where many experienced adults would not and I give you a lot of credit for that. You are stressed and unhappy and that’s not a good way to start out college. A couple of thoughts…</p>
<p>-Talk to Case and find out if you can defer one year. Try to find out in that year if you can fairly apply to other universities. This is only a good idea if you have something productive you can do in the GAP year. You don’t have to travel Europe or work in the Peace Corps, but you should have a plan. </p>
<p>-GA Tech is not going to be much more than the $30k Case is going to cost. See if they will take you.</p>
<p>-You said you didn’t apply to state schools. Are there state schools that are safety/match you would consider attending?</p>
<p>-Rerun FAFSA and see if you would be eligible for aid given your parents increased housing cost. I’m not familiar enough to know if a non-primary residence will make a difference in award. Also, would you consider a part-time campus job at a university if it meant being happier then you envision being at Case. Only you and your parents can decide if you are a student that can handle 10-12 hrs/week. This might help make a difference for say spending money and you wouldn’t feel bad asking your parents for money.</p>
<p>-If you decide to go to community college make sure you understand how this will affect any merit/fin-aid award next year. Generally the highest awards are to first time freshman students. Each university may define this differently. You may be able to take classes but not over a certain number of hours and still be a freshman, or not at all. This means if you are going to apply to colleges next year, and not stay at cc and transfer after you earn an associates degree it MAY be better to take a gap year then risk your freshman status.</p>
<p>Continue to communicate with your parents about how you are feeling. Right now your number one goal should be to help reduce this anxiety. Some is normal right now, but I feel from your post you are experiencing more than you should. Work to reduce that.</p>
<p>Best of luck!</p>