Boarding School in PA or Private School in Santa Fe, NM

Hi. I have recently been facing the decision on how to continue the rest of my high school career. I am a rising junior and have gone to a boarding school on the East Coast for two years. I have received good grades and leadership opportunities, but I frequently slip into depressive episodes and feel the need to return home to aid in the growing conflict between my parents, as well as money issues. My mother lives in Santa Fe and I have the chance to attend a good private school there. It does not offer me the same comfort as the boarding school would, but it does have its perks.
I dream of attending a fantastic college, such as Penn or Barnard, but I am worried about this move. My standardized testing scores are great and I have never received less than a 4.0 GPA. Do you have any advice on this choice or have any idea if it would negatively affect my odds of being accepted into an esteemed college/university?
Thank you, really needing some help…

Your question focuses on if changing schools will affect your chances to get into the colleges of your choice. I think the real question to consider is your statement that you want to “return home to aid in the growing conflict between my parents, as well as money issues.”

I would suggest exploring this concept with a counselor (hoping you have one if you deal with depression). Many times other people’s problems are their own and no matter how much we want to help, we can’t. On the other hand maybe you could work or the private school is less expensive to help ease your parent’s financial burden.

Good luck. Talking to a counselor might help you sort out your thoughts.

First of all, as an adult, I want to tell you that in no way should you be aiding in any conflict between your parents.
That is an adult issue and you are not responsible for that.
Your parents should not be sharing too much about that with you…you should not be anyone’s confidant.
Talk to your counselor about your family issues.

Do not make money decisions on behalf of your parents…let them tell you the budget and if you need to leave your school.