How do I decide on a college without my parents help?

Hi! I’m currently a senior finishing up high school at a Christian school in town. My parents are devout Christians and since I don’t embrace all their views there has been some tension between us for some time. They tend to be very strict and controlling. I know they do this because they love me but since I’ll be 18 in a few months, it’s time for me to start making decisions for myself.

The main decision I’m struggling with is what college to attend. My parents will help me pay for college if and only if I go to a select Christian university. I’ve accepted this but I’m not sure if I want to continue being around tons of “Christian” people with strict rules and lots of doctrine. I need to decide what I believe and I might be able to do that better at a secular university. On the other hand, my parents have made it clear that I would totally be on my own if I made that choice. How would I be able to handle that financially? Also I don’t know if I like the idea of being totally on my own cold turkey with no assistance?

I would love some insight into my situation! Thanks for taking the time to read

Category: Education Tags: college decisions asked March 4, 2015

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Amanda

1 Answer

Hi! I know what it is like to be in a Christian household and not seeing eye to eye with parents nor some beliefs. I think that life is all about finding yourself, and college is your time to do so. In my opinion I think you should go to a secular university and have fun, or else you are going to be in a classes where religion is going to be brought up or connected in some way. Also, you go to a Christian school, it may be time to branch out. The fear of being on your own is real and scary, but if you go to a secular school there are going to be a ton of kids who can't pay their way and work jobs. There are many scholarships, governmental aid, grants, and school staff to work out your finances. Yes, the whole getting a job and stressing yourself out more will be a pain, but you may enjoy your college life more. Also, you will get experiences and some teachings that will you get, going to a more secular college. There are a ton of people who can't pay or parents just cut them off, but through that experience they learn hard work, time management, and what it means to persevere.Who is to say there isn't a bible class that you can go to on campus? Try to make an agreement with your parents, that you will go to a bible class or attend a church? One way or another it is ultimately your decision. I hope that all goes well for you.

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Lexi