Hi everyone…apologies in advance for my naivete.
I am currently attending a conservatory as a piano performance major. I completed my freshman year this year and was set to go back in August, but my parents have now decided that they will no longer support me, and want me to move out.
I have no idea what to do. I don’t qualify as an independent and I’m not even sure how the whole loan process works, but even with scholarship it’s very very expensive. What are my options? I don’t want to give up music, it’s my life.
Why have your parents made this drastic decision? What are their expectations as far as school for you? Can you talk to them about this?
Can you reconcile with your parents? What are your school costs?
No, talking to them is not possible. I have been trying to talk to them for the whole summer. Unfortunately I come from an abusive household and they didn’t want me going to school in the first place. But after my first year there, I really can’t see another option and I would be absolutely devastated if I didn’t find a way to go, even if I have to take on a huge debt.
My school costs are around $30-40k a year
bump?
What does your parents expect you to do if you are not in college?
I honestly don’t have a good answer for you. But one place to start might be to talk to your school’s financial aid office and tell them your situation. Ask them to explain your options. Do you have a teacher who knows you and would fight for you for extra scholarships? Let them all know your situation and ask for ideas and options.
The sad reality is that it going to be extremely difficult for you to continue at your current school. No financial institution is going to loan you $100k+ to finish your degree. Even if they did, you shouldn’t take it. You can try talking to your current school, but that will be a long shot. It sounds like your parents are telling you to also move out of their home. Your first priority is to find somewhere safe to live. College will always be there, even if it isn’t tomorrow. Many students have breaks in their studies. The key is to get your self in a safe stable environment then worry about your education.
First thing Monday morning, contact the school. Speak to someone in Financial Aid, and see what they say. If they can’t do anything for you, go to the Registrar and see whether there’s any way for you to take a year off but still retain your status as a student there. Things may somehow change in the next year.
But I agree-- the bigger picture is that you’re being kicked out of your house. So today, Saturday, you need to start looking for a full time job and a place to live. Do you have any high school buddies who might be interested in moving in with you as roommates, so that the cost of renting would be cut in half? Are there any colleges near you-- their websites may have info on apartments for rent in your area that are safe, full of kids your age, and reasonably priced.
I’m so sorry this is happening to you.