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[quote=Anonymous]Both.

College is about creating new possibilities for your life. It can look different for different people.

For some, the “new possibilities” are very narrow and practical: learning and training in a directed way for the sake of a sure-thing job or career. (To the extent it’s possible to identify a sure thing career right now.)

For others, the “new possibilities” are also learning and education-oriented, but in a broader sense. Yes, they expect to have a job and a career down the road, but they’re eager to explore and learn more broadly, including areas that have no practical job application for them at all. That part is about learning for its own sake and for personal growth - exploring interests and learning about the world.

For still others, the “new possibilities” stem from living away from family (and with peers) for the first time. Though not completely independent - they still have a system of support around them - they can experience a different level of opportunities, thrills, challenges, and risks as they learn.

Different kids - and families - approach college differently. Some focus on one of these aspects, some a combination, red plus others I didn’t list.

In my humble opinion, most of the differences are driven by economics and financial security.

College students from wealthy or even “just” financially secure families can approach college more broadly than those from true middle class or lower income families. The reality is that family wealth (or even “just” comfort/security) provides a cushion or safety net that allows for more academic exploration beyond simple job training.

Not every wealthy or financially secure family sees college that way. But the broader, exploratory view of higher education does feel like a luxury good these days ….

Finally, if I were in your position, OP, my number one priority  taking out loans for college. That would limit you and possibly your would be to find my kid a free ride to college. Not just tuition - the entire cost. Because loans (or even payments along the way) will create tremendous pressure on you all.

There are thousands of excellent colleges in this country that will put your child on a path to security and success. Focus on finding schools that are willing to provide the most substantial aid, and then take it one step at a time after that. As a first-generation college student, your child may have access to more financial and merit aid and more scholarships than you realize.

Good luck!

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