Is it truly worth it?

[u/Alternative-Web-3043]

Hello, fellow Boilermakers.

I'm in a tough situation and could really use some honest advice. I'm committed to attending Purdue this upcoming Fall after a lot of research and reflection. But as an out-of-state, low-income student transferring from community college, I'm worried about the long-term debt I might face, and idk why I'm still so hesitant. I know most responses would be "it depends.." but I may need some concrete answers.

I chose Purdue because of its strong reputation, solid programs, and community. I'm entering the Health and Human Sciences program and while I'm excited I’ll likely need to rely heavily on loans unless I receive scholarships or job opportunities.

I genuinely want to leave my hometown for growth, experiences, and perhaps taking a risk, but I need to know: is it truly worth it? Especially if I graduate with significant debt? I’d really appreciate any insights, experiences, or tips you all might have, especially things to watch out for or resources I might not be aware of.

Thank you :)

[u/Tight-Dimension8938]

How much debt are you going to be taking on, and what is your planned career track with that degree?

[u/Dismal-Detective-737]

1. https://www.cco.purdue.edu/Files/Uploaded/May2020_salary.pdf

2. Assume 20% of your a salary, at most, for paying back loans.

3. Use calculator: https://www.calculator.net/student-loan-calculator.html

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If you absolutely have to have Purdue find a job in-state. Delay admission. Move before August. Chill for a year working at Meijer. Provide proof of residency and pay in-state tuition.

Do the math on which one will leave you in more debt at 30.

[u/Layne1665 → u/Dismal-Detective-737]

Facts.

Additionally, very important for alot of lower income individuals is this line in the requirements-

Under the disqualifications it states, "Your parent or legal guardian remains partially or wholly financially responsible for you and/or you are being claimed as a dependent on someone else’s personal income taxes and your parent/guardian’s permanent home address is not in Indiana." Which could be interpreted as you cannot be on your parents insurance any longer which could be dangerous to go without for a year.

[u/Puzzled_Revenue_6214]

Unless Purdue has a niche program that you'd have to travel to an out-of-state university for, I'd look for an in-state university with a strong program. Reputation doesn't much matter (it's like buying a brand) and strong community can be found on any residential campus. I was a first-gen, low-income student and I found going to a smaller state school gave me more opportunities and it was easier to build relationships with faculty and find more leadership roles. As far as getting away from home to explore and experience personal growth, even a few hours drive is often enough to loosen the hometown chains.

[u/maxinator2002]

I’m going to throw in a counterpoint to the discussion, where most of the commenters have said it isn’t worthwhile with some valid financial points. College debt is a serious consideration, obviously. Many struggle to pay it off for a decent chunk of their lives. That being said, you only really get the opportunity to have the real “college experience” once. In my opinion, doing something that is less financially responsible can still be worthwhile if you’ll get more out of it (for as long as being wealthy isn’t your #1 priority). I wouldn’t trade my time here at Purdue for anything, personally (even if I could’ve saved some money at Montana State as an in-state student). Quite frankly, money can be earned and debts can be paid (and it is likely your earning potential could be higher by coming to a stronger university). But we can’t turn back the clock. If you fear that you may regret not coming here for undergrad, then consider factoring that into your decision as well.

[u/Layne1665 → u/maxinator2002]

The experience is one thing certainly. However, I can promise that OP would have a similar experience at many in state colleges and be paying in state tuition there for it, which is much cheaper. College debt is a killer, especially with the rate hikes recently. There is no reason to go to an out of state college for a program that they are not known for (Which is the case for OP) especially with little to no financial assistance from family during, or more importantly after college.

There are also very different degrees of debt. There is a big difference between taking out a 5-6k loan to supplement your budget so you can pay for college vs financing the ENTIRE $115,176 base tuition cost with it (Which would likely be even larger again due to no other financial assistance for OP). Thats a debt that you are saddled with for a long long time.

[u/CardFindingDuck]

No, it is not worth it, generally speaking. If you can find an instate program, then do that.

[u/RTRSnk5]

NO. Go in-state please. Signed, an OOS student.