I think one reality check is if I get a degree in XXXX , that cost me $80k , will there be jobs in that field , and will that field interest me for the next 20-30 years.
I am sure you can name lots of majors with a very limited amount of good paying jobs ,
Going the first 2 years at a local Junior College will not cost much and give him an idea if thats what he really wants to study ,
I wish they had a "mini" 4 year Local college so you could take even more normal classes close to home .
In reply to californiamilleghia :
Your first two years are mostly general education classes anyway, so I'm not sure how much that would help.
I wasn't taking classes on Ethical Reporting or building a Public Relations campaign as a freshman or sophomore.
Student loans are a great way to educate youngsters how credit will drag you down, start 'em off neck deep in debit.
As a responsible parent I would not likely cosign a predatory loan as such.
There are lots of alternative ways of financing education, starting with the traditional.