<p>I’m glad the OP was able to work it out, but I do cringe when I see threads asking if one college or another is “worth it” since being “worth it” has no many, many individual connotations. Funny story, three years ago a young person in my older son’s graduating class was headed to Bowdoin. At the senior honors so many parents were wondering/gossiping about what was wrong with this student. They assumed there was some sort of “blot” on the record and that’s why this student wasn’t going to UofM or one of the many great LACs and colleges in the midwest. The world outside of our little CC bubble is quite parochial indeed.</p>
<p>“but our S has worked his butt off at a small rural public high school in preparation for applying to these places”</p>
<p>That was the deciding factor in helping D go to her elite small LAC. I do have to admit to jealousy when hearing from many that you would just have to give up on vacations. Can’t remember the last time I had one…</p>
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<p>Oh dear. Was that necessary?</p>
<p>^^My kids are far out of their region attending college so quite used to it.</p>
<p>G’Tatum: Me neither, unless visiting the kids on parents’ weekend counts. Don’t sweat it. And when D was abroad, we couldn’t afford to go see her. Sigh. Just the way it was. We had a second in college at the same time.</p>
<p>My son is now a senior at Bowdoin. Paying for this education has been a real hardship for us, though the grants received have certainly helped and even more importantly, will leave him with little debt upon graduation (his freshman year required loans). However, his overall experience at Bowdoin has been so wonderful, I would have to urge any parent to bite the bullet and make the sacrifice, if it is at all possible. My son entered Bowdoin as a shy, bright kid, swimming in a sea of uncertainty. He will be leaving as a mature, confident individual who I am convinced, will succeed at whatever he sets his mind to. </p>
<p>In the coming months he will be applying to PHD programs and Bowdoin’s academic reputation, combined with his references and GPA, will assure his acceptance at some fine institution. However, it is the man who comes home to visit that impresses me. Perhaps this growth would have been achieved at another school, but I for one, would not want to take that gamble.</p>
<p>That’s a wonderful testimonial, Nukezm, and it must be wonderful to see as a parent. Congrats to your family, and best wishes to your son as he continues his education.</p>