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<p>I had to chime in when I read this post. </p>
<p>Lefty, please take it from someone who was disowned for having the audacity to live my own life, get away from your mother as fast as you can. Deep down, I feel you already know this. </p>
<p>I also live in California. I’m in San Diego. One of this state’s strengths is there are fantastic schools here on all levels: Community college, Cali state, and the UC system. Another strength is the community colleges are very affordable out of pocket. It sounds like you’re still a bit unsure about what you want to major in (and if I’m wrong, I apologize.) You can attend one of the community colleges for the first 2 years and then transfer to the UC system at a later date…when you are 24 and won’t need her financial info anymore. Your present situation with your mother…it will be difficult to do well in any school. </p>
<p>Finding a new home (with roommates) getting a job and paying for community college out of pocket will be hard, but I suspect you will be happier. Your mother has already damaged your relationship with the controlling, but if you give into it, the inevitable resentment will make the damage irreparable.</p>