<p>Hi, I’m very puzzled and don’t know what to do.
Ok guys, I have not applied yet but I think I will be accepted at Truman State University (Missouri) and Orange Coast College (a community college in California near L.A). My uncle who lives in California says I should go to Orange Coast because it’s in a big city, it’s easier to find jobs and provides more opportunities then I can transfer to a 4-year university after I get my AA. California is more fit to study Economics (I plan to major in Economics). At a personal level, since I am gay, I think it’s socially better to be in California. Also, I have a lot of relatives and my best friend lives near there. However, a community college does not give me a 100% chance of tranferring to a CSU school. It’s also more expensive in California. I’m an international student so I won’t be eligible for any federal financial aid. For example, Truman’s cost ( including room and meals) is $26000 but they may give me a $1000 to $6000 scholarship through 4 years if I keep my grades up. Orange Coast would not give me anything and its cost will be around $ 10,000 for tuition and fees. I will have to live off campus because it doesn’t have on campus housing. That means I’ll have to learn how to drive and get a car. I estimate a total would be around $20,000. But when I transfer, a 4-year school is extremely expensive. CSU, Fullerton tution, fees, books, and insurance alone is $20,000. That’s not loving cost. If I stay at Truman, I’ll pay $ 25,000 a year or less if I get a scholarship. Please give a advice!!! HELP!</p>
<p>if your uncle lives in cali why cant you live with him when you go to the jc? After you lived in cali for a couple years (whatever the requirement is) you can try to apply for residency so that you wouldnt have to pay out of state tuition after you transfer to CSUF. Even though cali has big cities employment is pretty tough too. If it were me and I had to choose id choose which is less costly and the college thatll give me more aid in college. Because if you decide to go to grad school in cali you can always apply again, but thats just me. Goodluck.</p>
<p>@ PikaChew - the OP will not qualify for in-state tuition while living with relatives and attending a CA public college (CSU, CC, UC). He is not a resident of CA and will not be a considered a resident for tuition purposes while living with relatives to attend college.</p>
<p>Idk about that but take my advice… do not overload your self with classes. I hate when people talk about that college sucks and make it scary for others in which in real life it is so freakin amazin. To put it in perpective Middle school=hell high school= getting out of hell. college= heavan. It will be what you make and those that enjoy there college years dont cram everything in one semester. College can be the best time in your life trust me if you make it that.</p>
<p>I totally understand your financial issue. But look into more, if there is a way to make ends meet without killing yourself and you really want to be in Cali, then do it. It will be a wonderful experience. And as long as you have a plan of where you want to go and what you want your major to be after two years at a JC, you will be fine. Set a goal and stick to it. As long as you know where you want to go afterwards, you can accomadate your studies to their requirements. Best of luck!</p>