Private College Student Loan

Wanting to switch schools...?

I am an English Education major currently in CO, looking to move to the midwest. I am very interested in Northeastern Illinois in Chicago and UNI in Northern Iowa. However, my parents disagree. They believe that I belong here where I go to school full time, work part time, and can't afford to live anywhere but at home. Of course, if I moved, I would probably have to spend a year in the dorm before being able to find a place of my own. My parents say that in this economy, I should be grateful for what I have. Switching schools also means instead of my 6,000 a semester loan that I have, it will become 12,000 a semester or more. I realize that it is a lot of money, but I feel that I am suffocating living at home (the cost of living is too high here and I don't make enough part time to afford my own place, even with roomies) and not feeling like I am getting quite the education at my science/agriculture centered collage. My dept is shoved into a basement and the classes are limited. Am I being rediculous by wanting to change or is it truly a bad idea?

Public Comments

1. no, you aren't ridiculous, but in these economic times, I agree with your folks, it's not a good idea. Lots of kids are having to "suck it up" and live at home, etc. While it's not the most ideal situation right now, I'm sure you can make it work. You didn't say what year you are in school, but you could give some thought to attending an out of state school for your masters program. Depending on what you plan to do with your English major, I'd recommend that you get your masters right after your bachelors degree. You will be more marketable either in the education field or in the private sector. Best of luck, I wish you well.
2. I'm not sure about NE Illinois, but UNI is a fantastic school for education, especially English Ed. Dorm life isn't too bad either, and Cedar Falls has some good hangouts. Also, the cost of living is very inexpensive in the Midwest, which would be another good savings. College is difficult to do over, so if you can financially swing it, you should get the experience that you want. Make sure that you (a) visit the schools first before making any sort of commitment, (b) that your credits will transfer, and (c) that it is a location you would be comfortable with. Now is the time to launch yourself from home into the real world, otherwise it will become that much harder later on. I think that you'll be able to manage - good luck!