She Strengthens

The True Cost of a Free Ride

As a high school senior, choosing the right college can be overwhelming. With factors like location, campus life, and program offerings to consider, it’s no wonder many students feel like they’re making a blind leap of faith. For me, the decision was surprisingly simple. I applied to only two colleges, and my top choice offered me a full-ride scholarship, covering tuition, fees, room, and board. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

A Privileged Perspective

Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was to have such a straightforward decision. My parents had high expectations for me, and they encouraged me to focus on my studies, allowing me to secure good grades and ACT scores. I didn’t have to worry about getting admitted to my top choice, and I didn’t aim for the Ivy League. But most importantly, I didn’t have to worry about student loans.

The Value of Hard Work

I often remind myself that I “earned” my scholarship, thanks to my hard work and dedication. It’s easy to feel like it was handed to me on a silver platter, but the truth is, I put in the effort to achieve good grades and scores. Now, as I make small payments to my college, I appreciate the value of my education even more.

The Grass Isn’t Always Greener

Despite my good fortune, I’ve come to realize that my college experience hasn’t been without its challenges. I attend a small liberal arts school with limited degree programs, classes, and professors. The town is tiny, with few amenities, and I often feel suffocated by the lack of options. I’ve tried to make the most of it, joining clubs, taking on leadership roles, and making friends, but it’s hard to shake the feeling that I’ve made a mistake.

The Burden of Responsibility

I’ve been told I’m lucky to have avoided student loans, but it’s a double-edged sword. I’ve prioritized my financial situation over other factors, and it’s been a heavy burden to carry. I wonder if I’ve missed out on experiences and opportunities that would have made me happier. Maybe I should have looked harder for a college that would have been a better fit.

Living with the Consequences

In the end, I know my decision will have long-term financial benefits, but it’s come at a cost. I’ve had to adapt to a small town, limited options, and a sub-par education. It’s a trade-off I’ll have to live with, just like my classmates will have to navigate their student loans. As I near graduation, I’m left wondering if I made the right choice, and if there’s another school out there that would have been a better fit.