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<li>You will need your GC to backup the fact that you worked hard, overcame slow reading (but got nabbed on the ACT- but are a great student with excellent skills) and your home responsibilities. 2. Figure out which colleges will work for your econ interests and offer the environment you want. See which actually guarantee to “meet full need” or even offer good aid in the first place. 3. DO NOT overestimate the fin aid you might get and do NOT underestimate how bad it can be to graduate with huge loan debt. Read along in the financial aid forum and see the advice. Read finaid.org for good background. Your loans may be capped at, eg, $5500 for freshman year and your mom might be stuck needing to take Parent Plus loans. Online, you can see how much various loan totals would cost you in repayment, monthly, after graduation-- that would mean your new salary (if you get a good job- there are no guarantees) went to loans- not helping mom and brother, buying a car to get to work or any extras. Good luck.</li>
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