<p>Unfortunately, you’re right. Which is why grades and test scores matter so much for the independent student. Its a message we ALL need to try to spread around. I teach at an institution where a 3.8 and high test scores can net a half-tuition scholarship up-front before other aid. I know there are other schools that do this as well. But the students have to do the research and work hard in high school. I tell them they need to think of high school as a job that can pay $10,000-20,000 a year towards college. That’s a killer job to have at age 15.</p>
<p>As far as the apartments - many of our students use their alumni network and find sweet deals in the $400-500 range. They are not living in Manhattan though. Most of them are in Queens, Astoria, or up around Spanish Harlem. Not the best location, but its what they have to do to get what they want.</p>