<p>“Mom and Dad, i do not want to go to a service academy or join ROTC. But here’s a list of schools to which I’d like to apply that give excellent financial aid, whether need-based or merit-based. This aid means we’ll pay dimes on the dollar for my education at these fine institutions. Remember, one day i’ll likely have to take care of you in one way or another, so it’s important that I get a good education without being riddled with post-grad debt. And while we as humans can die any day by any number of ways, by saying no to the military i’ll be removing my name from the possibility of losing my life due to military operations. Though it is unlikely I would die in the military, the chance that I will be placed in harm’s way is real and not under my control once I join.”</p>
<p>Something like that, in your words.</p>
<p>Figure out the schools you like; figure out which give the best non-loan financial aid, be it need-based or merit-based; present this list to them, showing them how good the schools are, the likely price (to them) of attending, and how grateful you will be to have their help now, and how happy you will be to be a successful student and professional who will one day have the means to help them, given the great education they helped procure and underwrite for you.</p>