<p>I think this is a tough decision because you really don’t know what you want to do yet or are really in the position to evaluate post grad options because of age and experience. You must look within yourself and not your parents to decide what you want to do with your career. Taking on a career to please parents isn’t a very good way to go. I also think other people can’t pick your college so try not to be influenced by people who are just going on brand name and not looking deeper at the situation. You will start to see so many possibilities as you go through college. It seems unrealistic to pick when you are 18, you have to allow for exploration. It sounds like full pay at Princeton will be a strain on your family, although they seem to have enough that you don’t get aid. It’s a crazy amount to spend imo, unless the money is long set aside for such purpose and truly won’t be missed. I think Wash U is going to give you more flexibility and possible help with post grad schooling if needed.</p>