<p>Hello,
just as the title says, I'm really questioning whether or not Franklin and Marshall is worth applying to/attending.</p>
<p>The dilemma is that I live 5 hours away from it so it'd be a burden to my low-income parents to drive all the way out there for an interview, visit, and if I decide to attend, dropping me off and picking me up.
The second thing is that since I'm low income, I really need a lot of financial aid and for all four years.
I have close to nothing saved up for college so I'm looking at colleges that give a lot of aid.
Would it be worth driving a long distance for? I think that my major issue is that it's so far away.</p>
<p>Also, I'm looking for a school that has strong academics overall, especially in the sciences, has a friendly and fun community, and is near a relatively lively college town. I always hear that F&M has the nicest and friendliest students and a strong science department so I'm really interested but I'm also so conflicted about the school.</p>
<p>Could any current students or alumnae please share their thoughts and opinions?
I'd be really appreciative of any advice!</p>
<p>I am an international student who goes home no more than one time each year, so I might not be fully aware of your issue in the correct way, but I hope my input could still be helpful. </p>
<p>In terms of financial aid, F&M is known to be very generous. Its need-based policy means that as long as you are accepted, the school will meet 100% of your demonstrated need (there is a loan portion in the financial aid package to keep in mind though). For academics, F&M’s reputation in sciences is quite good. I also find the community nice and welcoming. </p>
<p>About your dilemma, I think there are two things that you could consider. Firstly, is there a better option for your college education? (a good school closer to home that offers good financial aid) Secondly, what’s your plan for housing? I have a friend from California who lives on campus most of the time and only flies home during the long breaks. There is another friend whose house is one hour away from campus but she stays on campus even on the weekends. The housing cost is also calculated in the financial aid package, in case you are wondering. There are other transportations available as well (bus and train, as far as I know), although going to F&M for an interview and a visit would still be quite a burden. You can also try emailing the admission office to ask more about this; it’s a nice way to show your interest and they might be able to give you some suggestions. </p>
Hi ronile, this is nearly a year late and I’m super sorry!!
Thanks for your well thought out response ^^ I ended up applying and got in!
I definitely took your advice and applied to a closer LAC with a similar feel in addition to FAndM.