Will you enroll or decline?

collegebound_09
Sun, 29 Mar 2009 17:57:39 +0000

My son unwillingly has to reject because we didn’t get a penny in merit aid, and only 5k in Stafford loans; it’s really a shame. His counselor was certain that he’d get a sizable merit scholarship from Brandeis, since she saw it as one of his safeties. He had even planned out his future at Brandeis–what classes he’d take, what he’d major/minor in, programs for summer, dorms choices, visitation with nearby family…you name it…, he’s thought about it.

He had rushed home from school that day in February (a Special Invitation App), before I could get home, to open his letter. When I walked in the front door and arrived at his room, I saw him staring at the decision letter. He went up to me, gave me a hug, and started to cry (& didn’t stop for about at hour). It was the most painful thing I’ve seen happen to him.

He applied to some other excellent institutions, but Brandeis was indeed his true favorite. We are going to appeal his aid decision later on in April and see where that takes us…so much for college being affordable, right?