My advice is don’t take on educational debt if you don’t have to. If you have to, go to the school that fulfills your needs while providing the best FA package. ND is great. Youngest graduating this year and has loved it. Oldest graduated Harvard 4 years ago and loved it. We’ve been fortunate and tuition wasn’t a problem. Honestly, spouse and I both entranced by rankings, history, tradition, and (perceived) opportunity differentials at both schools. Both kids are bright and have simultaneously come to conclusion that their experiences, although very positive, weren’t worth the more than 200K (each!) that their education cost vs the total cost ( with merit aid) of the excellent state schools they considered. They have great friends, they have great jobs ,but neither would spend the money to send their kids to their alma maters. School has changed. Learning has changed. The job market has changed. There are amazing students, professors and opportunities at your state school. If you’re smart enough to get into ND, you’re probably smart enough to find them. This is just one perspective, not necessarily the right answer for you. Hope it helps. Stay well.
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