This is excellent advice. Best option is a direct-entry BSN program that is affordable. Next best option is probably CC → one of the CA publics. California has good options.
The non-direct entry programs can be a big risk for subsequently getting into the nursing major. This particular student won’t really have the financial leeway to take that risk, so she might have to sacrifice the school spirit aspect if she doesn’t get into any direct-entry programs at such schools.