<p>I’m in a similar situation; I applied to Chicago because it is definitely where I would go if everywhere were free. That being said, even though I was accepted EA, I will likely end up at a state school or Catholic college that will provide a free ride (or close to it) via merit aid. I am the oldest of four children, and if I can go to college for free, I want to do so. I don’t want to saddle my parents with loans or be burdened myself with them. I firmly believe that you can learn wherever you go–go to UF or Purdue or wherever and don’t worry about it.</p>