Dear Eye View
I just graduated from college, am living at home, and started a year-long position as an AmeriCorps member. I’m paid a stipend set at the poverty line. Two weeks ago, my parents told me they expect me to pay them $80,000—half of my college tuition. We had never discussed splitting costs when I was applying to schools, and they discouraged me from considering state schools. If I knew that I would be responsible for half of the cost of my education, I would not have attended a private school. Still, I realize the value of education and want to take responsibility for my college costs. My parents recently sold their vacation house to help pay off my college costs and to celebrate the sale, they want us to go on vacation together in the fall. They expect me to pay $1,300 and take three weeks off from work for this “once-in-a-lifetime” trip. I can’t. But they said that if I don’t go, then they won’t go. How can I meet my parents’ expectations to be both financially responsible and supportive of their desire to travel?
Overwhelmed
Dear Overwhelmed
I understand your concern. You are suddenly being told you owe money on a debt you never expected and at the same time expect to spend money on an expense you never agreed to, with limited means of support. Congratulations on graduating and welcome to Economic Life Lesson #1. Your parents are dumbasses.. Hope for an economic miracle. Hope this helps..
EV
Moody Eye View 