My dream school is far away, don't want to make my parents sad?

Parents Forum
21

<p>“I would first advise against indulging in the whole “dream school” concept in the first place. Nothing against Clemson, but it is very hard to imagine that you could not find what it offers much closer, and probably for less money.”</p>

<p>The campus was astonishing, unlike any of the others I’ve visited. I really enjoy big sports atmosphere and school spirit, in which Clemson is among the best in the country. I’m a conservative, so I wanted to find a more conservative public university (just me) and I’m also christian and really liked how their student body has a christian base to it. Again, this is all things I want, I realize some of you might disagree that these things matter, but they do to me. I’m also going into engineering and Clemson is one of the top in the country along with Purdue for public schools. I don’t want to go to a big city, I love college towns. </p>

<p>With these things said, Clemson is a great fit. </p>

<p>The only ‘big school’ in my state with the big-time sports atmosphere is University of Minnesota. A very liberal, very cold, and very big city. None of these things I like. </p>

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<p>Clemson does sound like a great fit. I think the idea is not to settle at the get go, but keep all options open. I take it that you are applying this year? Apply to Clemson- and Purdue- and colleges closer to home, and more. Then decide when you have all the acceptances and info at hand. </p>

<p>I think the advice is given in the spirit that when a student is so impressed with a dream school, then it is hard to be objective about other schools. So keep an open mind. That said, Clemson sounds like a great match for you and it could be that it all works out fine. </p>