@blossom My dad understands the financial situation, and he is going to contribute something to my college, but he is frugal and just wants me to go to the cheapest option. Although, he really likes Nashville so he wants me to attend Vanderbilt, so I could probably get him to contribute more if I went there.
My qualm was that I could afford the net price calculator estimate, but I now realize that the estimate was off by $40k per year, since it doesn’t take into account the noncustodial parent.
Again, thanks so much for the help! I know that by the end of the admissions process, I will end up at the college that is right for me, so I am not going to get too upset or stressed about this situation.