Anonymous wrote:We have a set amount of money for higher education for DC. A 529 we have diligently contributed to, plus a grandparent contribution that has been promised.
So for us it's just a math conversation. We have X for college, here is what some of these colleges you are looking at cost. The cost of attendance calculators online are helpful, and then having conversations about how transportation costs are different depending on how far away. Our kid is bright, none of this is confusing, even if sometimes disappointing.
Two other factors we've introduced:
- DC is interested in a profession that will require graduate school. We encourage thinking about grad school costs and funding as well. Fortunately the grad program would almost certainly be self-funded, but we've talked about things like housing, or being able to pay for conferences and other training. Thinking about those long-term goals and associated costs helps put the cost of college in perspective. It also helps to recognize that prestige in undergrad might be less important as long as you can still gain admission to a grad program. For career, your grad program is going to be much more important.
- Reminding DC to think about day to day budgeting. Going to the school that is a financial stretch for the family will mean belt tightening for everyone, including DC. That means money for food, travel, clothes, etc. Whereas going to a school we can more easily afford gives us more leeway, and it will make it easier for us to support with extra money for socializing or non-academic experiences.
See, OP? PP gave you a blueprint. You just bulldoze over your husband's idiocy and lay out the facts for your kid.
|
![[Post New]](/jforum/templates/default/images/icon_minipost_new.gif){kind=icon}