I need some serious reality checks here. 
I got into my absolute dream school in Southern California. I've wanted this for years. But the financial aid package just came in, and... ouch. We're looking at a hefty chunk of loans to make it work.
My parents are saying "follow your dreams," but they don't have to pay the bills. I have a decent offer from a state school (CSU) that would leave me almost debt-free. But it’s just not the same experience.
For those of you in California dealing with these costs: Is the "college experience" and the name on the diploma worth the loan payments I'll be making for the next 15 years? Or is graduating without the weight of debt the real dream? I'm totally paralyzed by this choice. Please, hit me with your stories and advice.
I got into my absolute dream school in Southern California. I've wanted this for years. But the financial aid package just came in, and... ouch. We're looking at a hefty chunk of loans to make it work.My parents are saying "follow your dreams," but they don't have to pay the bills. I have a decent offer from a state school (CSU) that would leave me almost debt-free. But it’s just not the same experience.
For those of you in California dealing with these costs: Is the "college experience" and the name on the diploma worth the loan payments I'll be making for the next 15 years? Or is graduating without the weight of debt the real dream? I'm totally paralyzed by this choice. Please, hit me with your stories and advice.