<p>I agree with the airplane/oxygen mask analysis. Once you have secured your future you may be better able to help family if you choose to. For now, you need to get away from a family that is pulling you down rather than supporting you. I also agree that leaving as quietly as possible if probably the best approach - you don’t need any more difficulty in your life. </p>
<p>Is U-Mass Amherst far enough away from your family that they won’t drop by looking for handouts? </p>
<p>I have known students in similar situations to yours who moved out to get away from the stress of their families only to move back a year later because they felt guilty - usually about leaving a younger sibling in the household alone. It’s an emotional response, generally not the most logical and changing schools complicates your graduation time line so think through your decision and commit to the best plan for your future.</p>
<p>Before you are tempted to allow yourself to reconsider the local CC remember that the longer you stay to support your family on limited earnings the harder it will be to go; community college is only two years, a two years in which your family will have zero incentive to become more self sufficient than they are right now.</p>