Advice on talking about Out-Of-State options

toneranger
Wed, 22 Jul 2009 08:59:05 +0000

Of course, you need to better understand your parent’s objections to going out of state. Indeed, it may be finances…in which case, it would help for you to understand their perspective. If you feel strongly about getting out, perhaps you could work out a deal where you pick up the cost difference, either through loans or working. Be careful about what you take on though…big loans after graduation are a burden.

Honestly, we do see a few kids in our community who put their foot down and say they HAVE to go out of state. I hear the excuses about extending high school, and 13th grade. Some of these folks won’t even look at some at our public and private options - some of which are excellent. Personally, I think having a more open mind would help. It’s not automatically BETTER to go out of state. A friend of my brags about how her d has friends from all over the country. Well, that’s nice…but is it really such a huge factor? Is it worth huge amounts of money? My s goes in state, and has friends in quite a few states. And yes, many from our own state. When he comes home, he has many new friends within driving distance. He plans to stay local when he graduates and I think it’s great that he is extending his local network. Although many of his high school classmates went to his school, he has exactly ONE friend from that group. It’s really not that bad…in fact, I see many positives.

IMO, it would be great to open up your options. Help your parents to understand your need to look further afield…but also consider the option of staying in state. Keep an open mind. Good luck!