Getting Unlucky, or did I do something wrong?

I didn’t mean paying into the system through donations, but through taxes. UCONN is one of the most expensive public colleges for instate students around. I understand cost of living in CT is quite high compared to most places, but it just seems like a little much for a state flagship.
I am aware there are cheaper options instate (Southern, Central, ect.) as well as out of state (Wyoming, Montana, etc.). To be honest I would prefer to go to a CC before attending any of those schools though. I just don’t see them as being an environment that I can use to develop myself; call me arrogant if you want.

I will be asking UCONN to reassess the aid package, and hopefully that at least lands me a few grand. UCONN this year is totally possible, the concerns are really just for once my brother and sister graduate because then that 18k will be going 3 ways. Also, I had no intention or expectation of attending a pricey private university UNLESS they gave me a large amount of financial aid.