<p>Remember that a lot is going to change between now and next April when decisions come in. You will change, and believe it or not, your mother most likely will as well.</p>
<p>As you’re doing research on various colleges, educate your mother as well. If her opinion is uninformed, inform her! Talk about the various colleges, including the ones that offer merit aid. Talk about how to evaluate the curriculum and academic reputation of the schools. Talk about what your learning style is, and where you believe you would learn most effectively (LAC or large university? Middle university? Strong in science, or in humanities?). Oh, and while you’re talking, don’t forget to listen to her concerns as well.</p>
<p>Once you have all of your choices next April, including need-based and merit aid, you both can then sit down and evaluate your choices.</p>
<p>If you want your mother to understand, you’re going to have to do the work to help her.</p>