R124687

Sue: I hear you, and feel for you! I've raised my D alone since day one and ALSO jobless at her birth and for quite awhile after (hard for anyone to hire you when you need off every other day for a sick kid, isn't it!). No child support of course. Didn't get a "decent" salary until about 5 years ago (and even it is in jeopardy right now, like everyone else). I was orphaned at 5, poor all my life, didn't go to college and really WANT her to go to NYU. But....!?

So...sounds like you fully understand my dilemma. I'll also lose all I have earned AND be in big debt when she graduates NYU if she attends.

So I applaud you for all you've done for your child. It's hard when SO many people are saying it's STUPID to pay that much money if she can go for free to our in-state. So we're just twiddling our thumbs until March/April - trying hard to save the agonizing decision until we have more information.

Maybe we'll win the lottery!

sueinphilly

Yeah, never got child support, my son has never met his father.

I had tried to play down the chances of my son going to NYU. I was less concerned with him being accepted, but way concerned about the $$. I tell you I cried tears of joy when I saw what they were offering him.

Yes, he knows that he could have graduated with much less debt from State U (I would have had him take at least some Stafford loans even if it was unsubsidized because of lack of 'need'). Yes, I know I could have said, NO I refuse to pay my EFC. But my son has been going to NYC since he was 3 yo to visit my brother who lives there and he loves Manhattan and it was his dream school. I was not going to say NO when it WAS doable. Yes, I could have nearly paid off my mortgage with that 60K I'm spending on college.

BUT, I wanted him to live his dream if it was doable. I have the entire EFC for 4 years saved in cash and I can't think of a better investment than my son's future.

I might be paying off my mortgage until I'm 65, but giving my son the opportunity of a lifetime, priceless and worth every penny (even if he can't find a job when he graduates with a degree in Politics and a math minor)

R124687

SuePhilly...Hah-hah! My D's plans are to major in philosophy with possible minor in music! If she goes to NYU...maybe they can room together afterward as they both wait tables!!!!