<p>I have run the total cost of college and they said it was okay as long as that was the option I liked the most. However, my mother has been pushing me towards Hofstra because we expect a large merit aid package as well as my father since he wants me close to home. I have no problem going to Hofstra if it comes down to it, but I feel I need grow up an become more independent which will not happen 5 minutes from home.</p>