Your Top Choice(s) vs. A Full Ride Somewhere Else????

College Search & Selection
1

<p>I know there are a lot of people in this situation. But I am writing this because I think that people need to keep some things in perspective.</p>

<p>1) Congratulations! getting a full ride is an accomplishment no matter what institution it is.</p>

<p>2) Keep in mind many people would love to be in your position.</p>

<p>3) Financial Aid (if this is an issue for you) is important. 25K in debt times four years is 100K and that is a tremendous amount of debt.</p>

<p>4) You have to think about peripheral costs. A full ride covers school and housing, but think about books, transportation, if you get sick, money to spend on traveling to and from home especially if you go to a school far from home and PIZZA MONEY!!!!</p>

<p>5) You might have received a full ride to a "safety" or "local" university, and that might not be your first choice BUT you were the university's first choice.
That is huge. That means you are wanted above most of the students they admitted. I think there is something to be said for such an honor.</p>

<p>Obviously I realize this post is leaning towards people taking the "full ride" over a top choice and admittedly it is a bit biased in that way. But most of all I want everyone to make conscious decisions about their options and not be dismissive of a university making you a top choice.</p>

<p>Good Luck</p>

2

<p>Preach it brother!</p>

3

<p>It's a good statement. People get too focused on going to that top school, even for undergrad.</p>

4

<p>I agree 100%. Years ago I used to tell my kids, "You may not be able to attend the school you choose, but the one that chooses you." </p>

<p>In most cases I say, if they offer you money, and you need the money, take the money. </p>

<p>And you couldn't be more right about the honor associated with being your schools' top choice. Good point.</p>

5

<p>Thanks for the responses. Any other thoughts?</p>

6

<p>bump.........</p>

7

<p>I agreed. I'm following the money trail myself...</p>