<p>Herfather-- I PM’d you this a.m. re my thinking and how it evolved over a 9 month period. I might add that in addition to a quality and I mean quality (non diploma mill) education thru Smith or other LAC’s Daughters are purchased a Network for life. The more I learn about the Smith Network the more I believe it must be factured in to purchase price. This network is large and international in scope plus quite unique to elite LAC schools.</p>
<p>I might add that should my daughter matriculate at the University of Florida, she would bring with her 50 IB/AP credits-- entering as a 2nd semester sophomore. A biology degree requires 120 credits. GEP would be done, foreign language would be done and Intro Bio would be done. She would be out in 2 years applying to grad school. Cheap $$'s and pretty efficient in my mind. But, would she be educated like a Smith graduate? From what I’ve learned, the answer is a resounding NO. While STRIDE will help, I’m still going to be writing big checks to Smith-- I believe Daugther, Wife and me will get what we are paying for. </p>
<p>These decisions are rugged especially for middle class folks. Good luck with your struggle.</p>
<p>.02 David</p>