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Boarding school woes

My family life is just one huge problem. My parents are divorced, my brother is constantly getting hurt, my mom is about to lose our house and my dad just doesn’t care. I’m going to high school next year, and I am really interested in going to a boarding school so I can get away from my fam. When I brought it up, though, my mom just blew me off. How can I make her take me seriously?

 

Leaving home is a huge step that most kids put off until they go to college or get a place of their own. Allowing you to skip out of the house four years earlier than expected is probably a tough sitch for your mom to wrap her head around. You are her daughter, after all! Nonetheless, there are a few things you can do to help her to take your desire to attend boarding school more seriously.

 

Show me the money

First thing’s first: Your mom might love the idea of giving you this opportunity, but she might not have the money to make it happen. Private boarding schools are expensive, chica, and if you’re mom is struggling to make ends meet, sending you away to school might not be in the cards. Just ‘cause you can’t afford it out of pocket doesn’t mean your dream is out of reach, however. Look into the financial aid and scholarship offerings at the schools you’re considering. Depending upon your fam’s money matters, you might get a little assistance.

 

Why do you really want to go?

Sure, you might hate living at home right now, but that’s the last thing Mom wants to here. Make a list of other positives of boarding schools, especially in comparison to the local high school you’d be attending if you stayed home. Maybe they offer classes or extracurriculars in areas you’re really passionate about. Maybe their college counseling services are number one in the nation. Having proof of the benefits will definitely trump an, “But Mom, I really want to,” argument.

 

Present the facts

Ask Mom—and Dad—if you can set aside some time one night or weekend for a serious convo. Turn off the tube, get out your notes and give a presentation. As you present the facts—where you’d like to go, what they offer, how much it costs—be mature, not whiney. Answer their questions like an adult, not a child. Remember: This isn’t just about you, and this isn’t a little decision. They might still say no, but if you offer them a good argument for why you should go, they just might see things your way.
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by Brittany Taylor | 2/1/2016
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