OP, this is a tough decision but you’re right, it’s ultimately down to you and your family whether you take on the debt. This board leans heavily anti-debt, so that’s the prevailing answer you’re going to get here. I will say this: I’ve seen a fair number of optometrists in my life and a number of PTs. I’ve never once asked where they went undergrad. If you choose Vandy, it may be worith it for the experience/personal enrichment; it might not do much to advance your prospective career choices.