Can anyone give me college advice? I need hope that I can still achieve what I had initially set out to do.?

[Sherry1008]

Both of my parents know little college, and my counseler/teachers have had nothing to tell me. Most have said "I think you're getting in way over your head." This may be so, but I hoped to get further advice.I live in Texas and graduated this May. I had my heart set on attending school in Chicago and found an amazing college at which I was accepted. The school impresses me! I have to attend in July for Orientation and move in August.My problem is, even though I'll be acquiring roughly 8k in grants, That still leaves me short about 29k needed to attend this school! Some will be paid through stafford loans but it simply won't be enough. I have called their financial office and they had little to say to help me either. Private loans are difficult because both parents have bad credit, and almost every other school in the area is around the same in tuition. I hope to major in any of the following: Drawing/Illustration, Creative Writing, Graphic Design, or Game Art and Design

[Jenna1804]

Is this the Art Institute? If it is, I have a friend who is currently attending there. First of all, the school is very far away from your home. Do you think you can handle being that far away from home for your freshman year? No doubt, you are paying out of state tuition, also. If you are a dedicated student who can withstand being away from your family and friends and who gets excellent grades then I would try whatever you can to attend this college.Money wise--that is LOT OF MONEY! Is that for one year? WOW! If that's really what you want to do, I would continue looking into additional scholarships and grants. Do you qualify for FASFA (government aide) that will pay for portions of your tuition? If I were you, I would make an appointment to meet with a counselor from their financial aide office to speak in person with them. People are much more willing to speak face to face about such matters. It will be worth your trip to meet with them, because you could save a lot of money.Good luck with this big lifechanging moment. I, too, am attending a new school this fall (although not quite as far away as that) and I'm really looking forward to it. Have fun!

[texastreasure47]

Have you considered going to a school in Texas? The tuition at ALL schools is better if you are in-state.You may be able to find some additional financial help with Texas schools through the College for Texans campaign.You can call them at 1-888-311-8881 My aunt worked for the Texas Education Agency and they have excellent resources to help you with find funding and locating schools that will help you reach your goals.Good luck,Tex