Breaking Free from Expectations
Growing up, I never thought I’d be the first in my family to attend college. My parents, blue-collar workers from a long line of blue-collar workers, didn’t know how to encourage me academically. But I surprised myself, and my passion for sports led me to try harder in high school. By college application time, I had a respectable GPA and was varsity in two sports, on top of being in a few honors societies.
A Guidance Counselor’s Project
My guidance counselor took notice of my unique profile and became determined to get me into a good college. She encouraged me to apply to multiple schools, and I started getting accepted into several. One of my top choices was a prestigious private college in Florida, which stole my heart with its stunning campus and promise of success.
The Price of Pride
But there was a catch – the college was expensive, with a yearly tuition of over $30,000. Despite my reservations, everyone around me – my parents, counselor, and even a doctor from my mom’s clinic – urged me to take advantage of the opportunity. They emphasized the importance of being around successful people and the prestige of the college. My parents, in particular, were proud of me and wanted to contribute $10,000 per year to help with tuition.
A Decision Made for Others
I eventually gave in to the pressure and chose the more expensive college. I thought I could work part-time to cover some costs, but it wasn’t possible. I ended up taking out around $20,000 in student loans per year. While the college experience was amazing, I now resent the debt I’m carrying. My entry-level salary barely covers my monthly loan payments, and I often wonder if I would have been better off attending the cheaper college.
Lessons Learned
Looking back, I realize that I made the decision for everyone else, not for myself. My parents, counselor, and friends didn’t understand the reality of student loans and debt. I wish I had considered my own financial situation and priorities instead of getting swept up in the excitement of attending a prestigious college. Now, I’m left paying the price – literally.
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