A huge consumer purchase

What is the NUMBER ONE mistake families make in considering a college education for their son or daughter? I believe it's not taking into consideration that this is NO different than any other large consumer purchase...such as a house or a car.

We must look at a variety of schools, with their “return-on-investment” in mind (starting salaries for college graduates---when adjusted for inflation--- have remained FLAT at $42,000 per year for the last thirty years!!).

Remember that over 40% of students NEVER receive a degree, and 30% of students transfer colleges in the first two years.

Some thoughts on how to make sure you don't get trapped by college debt: evaluate many schools (particularly outside your geographical area), be certain each school offers ALL your major areas of interest (most students change majors four times—prior to receiving a degree) and appeal any financial aid offer for more money.

An informed consumer receives the BEST college financial aid package!