<p>I posted this under the Financial Aid forum, too. But it might fit better here. I'm asking parents of those who have seen their kids through college, and essentially those who have experience after college. Any input would be acutely appreciated!</p>
<p>I've lately seen nightmare stories about student loans. So essentially, I am seriously considering dropping (I just graduated high school) the school of my choice and attend our local community college for two years.</p>
<p>I choose RIT, who gave me 16,300 in aid. The cost PER YEAR is roughly 22k. My choice of major is Software Engineering (I right now program a bit, and greatly enjoy it).</p>
<p>I am not native to this country. Me and my family moved from Sweden in 2001. My parents are encouraging me to go, but they also did not pay for their education. My dad got his Master in Computer Science from Chalmer's University with only 30,000 in student debt.</p>
<p>They just bought a massive house and such, and they can not guarantee that they can support me in any way. (Our EFC is quite high, if that matters).</p>
<p>I have a hard time imagining the sum of 80,000 with interest.</p>
<p>I graduated high school with a 3.5 gpa, and 1800 SAT's. 700 and 650 on the SAT II's in English and Math II. (Yes, quite average for this board). RIT gave me the most financial aid from all the schools I applied (including the state school. One meet my full need..but according to fafsa, that's about 28k a year).</p>
<p>I understand education is not free. But I am worried if $86,000 will be worth it for a bachelor of science degree. Or rather, if I will be able to live.</p>
<p>Should I instead go this route with community college? Any input will be greatly appreciated!</p>