Has anyone here had to decide between their dream school (that is more $$), versus their IS school (which is dirt cheap in comparison)?
I know plenty of people have made some really great points about loans and interest, and that's what I keep telling myself, but I still can't help feeling like I'm selling out my dream.
Okay here's the deal. My two schools: A&M (in-state) and RVC (dream school). A&M is an awesome school, in fact I really enjoyed the facilities and the professors and students seemed nice! However, my biggest issue is with College Station, where A&M is located. It is a very small town that completely lacks in diversity. When I went for my interview, nearly every place I went to, my family and I were basically the only poc in the room. I grew up and even went to undergrad in very diverse areas, so this is a new and uncomfortable experience for me. Combining that with the disturbing stories of racism I've heard about the town along with the number of MAGA hats/bumper stickers I've seen... I'm just a little scared tbh. Plus, I'm worried I'll literally have to drive to Houston or Austin just to get any ethnic groceries.
Another issue is that my family is really, really pressuring me to go to A&M. My parents were ridiculously controlling during my childhood up until even college, and they've strongly implied that if I get into A&M, they're literally going to move to College Station. This is super frustrating for me, because I want vet school to be the time of my life where I get to break free and grow as a person. I don't think that will be possible if my parents are constantly spying on me (and they will be, 100%). They all but eliminates my chances of having a social life (especially a SO, which my parents have never allowed me to have).
Meanwhile, RVC is located in London, an area I would love to live in as an adult. I am a UK citizen, so I don't have to worry about visas. Diversity is also a non-issue, and I will literally always have the time to explore, if I so choose (RVC is basically a self-paced school). RVC is an extremely respectable school as well, and I really liked the way they've structured their curriculum. The (huge) downside is that RVC costs almost twice as much as A&M (40k versus 23k). I'll probably be paying off those loans until I'm 60. I'll also be unable to bring my dogs with me my first year, and my pit bull will be unable to come with me at all, because of BSL. My parents love my dogs however, so they're more than willing to take care of them, I'll just really miss them both.
ANYWAY I know I'm the only person who can decide which school to go to, but I am really stressing myself out about my decision. 🙁