<p>The University of Alabama has an excellent English Department and a strong MFA program, so I assume they have a lively program for undergraduate creative writing as well. I don’t think you should feel guilty about this option in the least! Your D would have fine opportunities there.</p>
<p>Depending on your circumstances, your D may qualify for need-based financial aid, which is often more generous at the private schools. If this is the case, it might actually be cheaper for her to go to a “fancy” school than to a state school; the publics tend to have lower tuition for everybody, but also to discount it less than the better-heeled private institutions. Some such schools are also test-optional, so your daughter might be able to apply on the basis of her grades without her test scores being considered.</p>