Should I Attend an In-State College or Out-of-State College?
The application process and the years of preparation leading up to it are often considered the most stressful aspects of the college process. However, many students and families find themselves with questions and dilemmas, even after decisions have been sent out by schools. Sometimes, the decision-making process can bring quandaries to the surface that many students and families haven’t considered, prior to being confronted with them. Weighing the pros and cons of different schools can be a process in itself. It’s a process that many of us are unprepared for. Even if you aren’t a student or family at this stage of the college process, you soon will be! So, considering these common factors can save you time and stress, as you construct your college list and engage in honest conversations with your family.
Should you go to state college?
The Gooroo team has seen the question of whether or not to attend a state college appear time and time again. The first step is to have a brutally honest discussion about finances. In an age where many graduates are drowning in debt, it is crucial that parents and students sit down and clearly communicate the state of their finances and their expectations. Sometimes, parents may avoid conversations about finances with their children. Although this is often done as a mode of protection and sacrifice, it ultimately ends up burdening children later.
Take into account the financial demands of each option. Are the costs of transportation on major holidays and move-in feasible? How will housing costs differ across state or city lines? It is important to take into consideration the cost of housing, especially if living at home is an option that you and your family are considering for an education at a state college. Oftentimes, in-state tuition is also less expensive. Families can also write up a multi-year budgeting chart.
There is no one-fit-all answer to the state college question. Many families assume that out of state education is always more expensive; this is not always true. An out of state college might offer more work-study opportunities or might be in a location that has a more robust part-time job market. All of these factors should be taken into account during the budgeting stage.
You may also want to consider schooling abroad. This option ends up being cheaper than both in-state or out-of-state schooling. Overall, think creatively and crunch the numbers.
How to weigh scholarship and financial aid opportunities
A similar approach is imperative when weighing scholarship and financial aid opportunities. When you are budgeting, it is important to consider the alumni networks and career opportunities that potential schools can offer. As a prospective or accepted student, it is completely your prerogative to call the financial aid/career office at any school to get information about their resources for student employment and post-graduation employment statistics. Information is power!
What is the average salary of a student graduating from a school after one, five, and ten years? Does that school offer grants or finance research or internships? These factors are important to weigh in your budgeting plan. What are the realistic long-term debt outcomes of each of your choices?
Try not to jump to conclusions when it comes to a more pre-professionally focused versus liberal arts style education. Oftentimes, pre-professional programs are considered to be far more lucrative; this is not always a comprehensive rule. Be careful not to rule out schools based on preconceived notions.
How to move forward
Furthermore, open lines of communication are crucial in all stages of the college application and decision processes. Research can save you time and money in the long run. This process is oftentimes emotionally fraught, but it doesn’t have to be. Let the data do the talking! You will make the most out of any place that you end up! If you remain open-minded and willing to approach the process with patience, creativity, and objectivity, you will only set yourself up for long-term success.
About the Author
