Parent here with a recent grad from PU in ME and another son at NU also in ME.
Oldest son had a great experience at PU with study abroad, co-op, meeting tons of people from all over and establishing a really good network. Don’t let the size turn you away, it can be an advantage. He a has landed a great job and has been well prepared.
Youngest son is attending NU and is also having an outstanding experience. We are paying about 24k and next year when he is off campus will save more. A smaller private was a better fit for him and we are happy with the decision. NU will price your total cost according to your financial status.
We have been stretched a bit but this is how I see our family advancing, my sons are the first in our entire family to make it with solid college degrees.