I’m really torn about my college decision and could use some advice. I was hoping to apply ED1 to a top semi-target school in a major Southern city that I absolutely love. It’s not Ivy League or the most widely recognized, but it has an excellent reputation in the industry I want to pursue, and the city offers endless professional opportunities. I know I’d thrive there — not just because of the name, but because of the programs, the connections, and the overall vibe. Even if I don’t break into IB (highly likely tbh), I’d still be incredibly happy at this school and confident it would lead to a fulfilling and financially strong career.
Unfortunately, my parents pushed me to apply to a more “prestigious” school for ED1, and I didn’t get in. Now I’m planning to apply ED2 to my dream school, but I’m really anxious. ED2 acceptance rates are basically the same as RD, so if I don’t get in, I’ll feel devastated. It feels like I’d be giving up the school I genuinely love for something that wasn’t my first choice.
The financials are another major issue. I come from a “donut hole” family — not low enough for need-based aid, but not wealthy enough to pay full tuition. Even UConn, my in-state school, would require loans unless I get significant merit aid, which is uncertain. But going to this semi-target means taking on ~$250K in loans (not including interest) or pulling from my parents’ 401k. That’s a huge amount of debt, and I’m struggling to decide if it’s worth the financial burden. My parents aren’t against it because they pushed me to ED1 to a place with the same costs yet have explicitly stated they want me to be happy.
I know UConn is a more affordable option, but many people I’ve spoken to don’t think it would help me get a foot in the door whether for IB or finance. However, this semi-target school offers the right mix of opportunities, and I truly feel it’s the best fit for me and I’d be happy there.
I also want to do my Master’s, and an accelerated program would be amazing, but my fear is that I’ll end up having to do those two years somewhere else because the undergrad wasn’t “prestigious” (I know) enough. Demographic-wise, I’m an unorthodox candidate for IB so that could either work for or against me.
My other choice would be to not go to UConn but a reputationally stronger non-target school like UMD or Binghamton and work hard. Binghamton is much more affordable for me than even UConn, which is great, but I don’t think I’d enjoy it there.
I’m deeply interested in IB - and not one to give up quickly - but if I had to pivot to something with trading or derivatives, I would be a little less upset (but probably continue to do everything I can to break in!).
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!