Dream School Versus MONEY?

So my dream is Northwestern. I think, as of now have a pretty good chance of getting in. I live in Chicago but would live on campus and only come home on big breaks (my house isn't too positive). I probably will visit/hang out with my brother a little more though (probably will have his own house by then).





ANYWAYS, its my dream, since forever so I always planned on applying ED (I'm a junior).


However, my brother (only one's opinion that matters) thinks I should go out of state to a good private or even public college ( something like Boston College) that offers me a lot of money.





He thinks I'll learn to be independent.





I AGREE, but its still my dream. Considering I will only come home on vacations other far away students come home on, independence still should be gained.





Yeah it costs a lot at @200K for all four years but my estimated financial aid is about 1/2 to 1/3 of the price. I also plan to look for lots of scholarships next year. (Community service ones especially).|||First of all, respecting your brother is totally cool and the right thing to do. You seem to be close to him. So, you should respect him. But always remember, he needs to respect you too. I don't mean for that to sound harsh or suggest that he doesn't respect you. Although, if it's your dream to go to Northwestern and that is what you truly want to do, you should pursue that dream.





It's easy to listen to our well respected siblings and friends because we trust them and want to make them happy, but we have to remember to make ourselves happy too.





Once, my sister discouraged me from going to this amazing private high school because the tuition was high, and so I went to public school. I regretted that a lot, but I didn't hold it against her. She and I later came to an agreement, and I transferred to the private school. It was the best high school I think I have ever been to, and I was so much happier there.





So, my point is, do what makes you happy and what you dream about doing. Your brother obviously means the best for you, but if he wants you to be independent, surely he'll understand if you make this decision on your own, as that is independence all by itself. Talk through it with him and explain that this is your dream school, and you really think it's the best decision.





Independence is gained by making choices! :) I really hope I helped, good luck!|||I think you'll do better at Northwestern. You get a taste of independence that isn't too overwhelming. The beginning of college is always a difficult transition for people. For some, it's their first time ever being away from home. You're entering an environment where you don't know anyone at all. Freshman often get overwhelmed by classes, homesick for their families, and have difficulty making friends.





At Northwestern, you'll have something to fall back on while you test the waters and begin learning to be independent.|||go for your dream.