College choice dilemma :/

<p>I've always wanted to go to Washington. I was born there and I love the area, plus lots of my family lives up in the Pacific NW. However, I am out of state and as such it would be a reach for me since my scores aren't the greatest. If I got in I would definitely want to go...</p>

<p>But I have a good chance at getting into Cal Poly. It's only a few hours away and it would be much cheaper. Plus the engineering school is top notch. And it's in state, so it wouldn't be nearly as expensive.</p>

<p>So basically, I would have to choose between my dream school that's expensive or a school that I wouldn't mind going to that is still very strong academically and money-wise a very good value. I know that the smart decision would be to go to Cal Poly (mom recently got laid off and money is very tight now) but it's been my dream to go to UW. Obviously this would be solved if I got denied at UW, because then I would just go to Poly. but if I got into both... ehh :/</p>

<p>You can apply to both and see if Washington gives you enough aid to equal itself to Cal Poly. And if it does, or at least makes it close, go there. But if you can get Cal Poly pretty cheaply, then go there.</p>

<p>UW is more demanding of OS students. Choose which is more fitting for you by visiting the campuses/people/life there.</p>