<p>I ended up living on campus across town from home, eons ago. I called home once a week and only went home for dorm closings- after all, I would have ended up back on campus for fun. A top public U is better than most private U’s (although not some of the most elite)- you should be able to be challenged, especially in the Honors program. Discount your friend and enjoy the freedoms of being a college student at a good U.</p>