<p>But with colleges - most are extremely expensive. This isn’t likely to change based on the quality of education or the difficulty of attendance.</p>
<p>that’s where you’re mistaken. And, that’s why I’m trying so hard to redirect your thinking. Do you think I’m just doing this to be difficult? LOL… No, dear, I’m doing this because you’re a bright student who could easily make some bad decisions out of naivete. </p>
<p>No, it’s not true that all schools are expensive (or similarly priced). </p>
<p>It sounds like your goal is to be a physician. Good for you. But, you don’t have to spend $200k for undergrad for that goal. 
</p>
<p>You may be wrongly thinking that you have to go to some top, top college to get into a good med school. That is sooooooo not true. </p>
<p>You have awesome state schools within your own state that are VERY affordable. Your stats would also get you some good merit at some other good schools. </p>
<p>However, if your family is lowish-income/low assets (your info so far has been confusing) then you could get great aid at some schools. However, you’ve made other statements that suggest that they aren’t low income. So, you could get accepted, but then have an unaffordable family contribution.</p>
<p>Please, when your parents are home, have a nice little talk with them. Find out how much they can contribute each year (not just the first year…but for 4 straight years). </p>
<p>Ask your dad to put in the info to figure out an approx EFC (the numbers don’t have to be perfect…if he can estimate that will probably give a good idea.)</p>