<p>May I ask which state U you're speaking of toneranger? It seems oddly similar to the one I'm looking into, lol.</p>
<p>My issue with the whole process is that I don't qualify for financial aid, but my parents still don't have 40k a year to blow (well without cutting into investments and such that are doing well), so while I <em>could</em> go to a private school I'm looking into more honors colleges at state U's since they offer merit aid, a great environment, and a great college experience. So far Penn State, while not my own state U, seems great, so I'm looking into it.</p>
<p>so i was talking about college with my step father. he asked me why i wanted to go to elite colleges, i said because they are selective and the student bodies are good. my step father (who earns more than 98% of americans) criticized me for being elitist and exclusive. it was quite weird.</p>
<p>Untilted - Tell your stepdad that the research is clear that the greatest predictor of college students' goals and aspirations is the student's peer group. Not faculty - not major - not grades or honors; when all is said and done, it's the peer influence that provides the distinct value of going to the "best" college.</p>