<p>If this so-called friend is referring to your school as the 13th grade, or implying that you will not grow as much or accomplish as much as she will, then the pressure’s on HER. If she has the advantage when it comes to college, then let her put her money where her mouth is and see what she’s accomplished a few years down the road. You’re obviously bright. Try to take advantage of the best your school has to offer, and try to not to focus on it’s proximity to home. Hopefully once you get involved with your teachers and classmates this won’t be such an issue. There will probably be plenty of other bright kids who chose state U. for financial reasons. It’s unfortunate that your mother seems to be boxing you in, though.</p>
<p>My brother was recently telling me about an old friend of his, and seemed so impressed that the guy had an IQ of 180 or some such claptrap. All it made me think was “then he’s a huge underachiever!” Make the most of what you’re offered. I bet you’ll go far :)</p>