It really depends on what $144k means to one’s family. To some families, that amount represents an insignificant sum and a university’s brand name is considered a worthwhile investment. Of course, what constitutes a brand name varies from household to household, and from community to community.
EMPire, I am glad to hear that you are going to visit Michigan with your parents. I think once you visit the Michigan campus, it becomes clear how good the University really is.
“…and yet thousands do it from all over the world every year…no matter what!”
But novi, you are talking about the very wealthy. Most people cannot afford it, and many that can, do not think it is worth paying that kind of money for a better education, stronger professional and graduate school placement, more recognized brand name and more influential social network.