<p>I doubt the major issue here is the additional travel costs of attending a distant college. It may be that they can’t bear to have you go far away. Or, it may be that they can afford to spend more for a private college, but don’t want to. Maybe they want you to go to Ohio State?</p>
<p>There are lots of good schools in Ohio and neighboring areas. How far away is Rose-Hulman (Indiana) for example? Even if it has little appeal, maybe it would be a good idea to make a visit WITH your parents to get some dialog going based on first-hand observations of what a smaller, private college has to offer. I’m assuming you’re not a senior and so you have some time for this.</p>
<p>Be sure to check out merit scholarships. Also the possibility of getting advanced standing and graduating in 3 not 4 years if you have lots of AP credit.</p>