Decision Time
Scrutinizing aid offers now can help avoid costly mistakes later
Setting off a bidding war is harder. Public schools have little discretionary money. And the top schools don't need to bid. But small private second- and third-tier schools are likely to up an award from a student whose GPA and test scores are significantly higher than those of the average student at the college, says Taylor.
Gut instincts. Still, as important as price is, it shouldn't be the single most important factor in choosing a college. Students should attend the college that is the best fit, both academically and financially. But don't be blinded by your green eyeshade, says Shirley Bloomquist, who recently retired as the director of guidance at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in Alexandria, Va. She recommends students visit each school they're considering and then choose the one that feels best, even if it seems a little bit of a financial reach. "I'm a big believer in gut instincts," says Bloomquist.
In the end, that's what Adam Gerstel did. After visiting NYU in the spring of his senior year in high school, he knew it was right for him. And despite the later financial problems, he has never considered giving up. Instead, he started cooking his own meals to save money. And he signed up for one extra course each semester. As a result, he's going to graduate a semester early, saving him and his family more than $20,000. "Go to the college you really want to go to," says Gerstel. "You'll figure out the money."
advertisement
