<p>I would LOVE to go to Caltech, but my mom won't even let me apply. Her theory is that if I go to California (I live in NC right now, my family will move to TN after I graduate next summer), my family will never see me (my logic of flying home is apparently lost on her). How to I get her to at least let me apply? I most likely won't even be accepted, so I don't see why she has such a problem with me trying.</p>
<p>Why do your parents need to know you're applying? ;)</p>
<p>Having an option open is better than having no option at all. Apply to Caltech and if you're accepted, decide from there. And, I totally understand the concerns about attending a college so far away. I'm a prefrosh and also from NC so, I went through a similar argument with my parents (They wanted me to go to Duke!).</p>
<p>Ah... parents... so predictable.</p>
<p>Hi schmivy, I wonder if the following would be helpful: point out to her that Caltech's financial aid package is, overall, astoundingly awesome compared to other top-tier schools, and Caltech is also considered one of the "best value" schools.</p>
<p>Actually, in some ways I think your mom's concern about not seeing you very much might be somewhat founded, but probably not for the reason of geography. Caltech is obviously a very intense school, and you may be so busy with academic work that you'll feel you have less time to come home (e.g. many students stay at school over Thanksgiving and spring break). However, your parents could visit you, and seriously...who wouldn't want to visit lovely Cali? :)</p>
<p>Anyway, good luck!!</p>