Hey there, fellow financial explorers! Let’s dive into a topic that’s as important as it is fascinating – college funding. Specifically, I want to talk about why I’m planning to fund 75% of my kids’ college education instead of the whole enchilada. And not 75% of their dream school, 75% of an in-state school. Now, before you start throwing tomatoes at the screen, hear me out. This isn’t about being a Scrooge; it’s about being smart with money while also teaching valuable life lessons. So, let’s explore the 75% solution!

1. The Power of Responsibility:
You know that feeling when you’ve worked hard for something, and it’s finally within your grasp? That sense of achievement, that pride – it’s priceless. By funding 75% of my kids’ college fund, I’m giving them the opportunity to take ownership of their education. They’ll understand that this isn’t just a handout; it’s a partnership in which they play a pivotal role.
2. Learning Life Skills:
College isn’t just about what you learn in the classroom; it’s also about the lessons you pick up along the way. By contributing to their own education, my kids will develop essential life skills like budgeting, financial responsibility, and setting priorities. It’s a crash course in Adulting 101.
3. Encouraging Entrepreneurship:
Some of the most successful people in the world started their entrepreneurial journeys during college. By not funding the full amount, I’m nudging my kids to explore alternative ways to pay for their education, like part-time jobs, scholarships, or even launching their own small businesses. Who knows, they might be the next Mark Zuckerberg or Elon Musk in the making! Of course, they both dropped out of college, but nevermind that.
4. Student Loan Awareness:
In today’s world, student loans are a reality for many graduates. By taking on a portion of their college expenses, my kids can better appreciate the magnitude of the student loan debt issue. They’ll understand why financial literacy and responsible borrowing are crucial. Though, I’m hoping they will find other creative ways to fund their education instead of just borrowing for what’s left.
5. Building Resilience:
Life doesn’t always go as planned, and challenges are inevitable. By sharing the financial burden, my kids will learn how to adapt and overcome obstacles. They’ll be better equipped to face adversity, which is an invaluable life skill.
6. Personal Growth:
Part of the college experience is personal growth. By taking on a share of the financial responsibility, my kids will learn to make independent decisions, manage their time, and embrace the opportunities for growth that college offers.
7. Fostering Gratitude:
Ultimately, I want my kids to graduate with a sense of gratitude, not just for the education they received but also for the effort and resources invested in their success. Gratitude is a powerful force that can positively impact their future relationships and overall happiness.
Now, you might be thinking, “But why not just fund it all and give your kids the easiest start possible?” And you know what? That’s a valid question. But here’s the thing: life is full of challenges, and it’s my duty as a parent to prepare my kids for the real world.
Then again, you may be on the other side of the fence and wonder why I’m not making them pay for it all. After all, if they will learn all of these life lessons with 25% of their “skin” on the line, won’t they learn even more with 100% responsibility for their education?
I want my kids to feel supported and not abandoned. I felt somewhat slighted by my own parents for not putting anything aside for my own college journey… but at the same time finding my own way was so valuable! I have gratitude for what they did contribute throughout my degree program.
In essence, I’m creating a balance between providing a safety net and teaching them to fly. By funding 75% of their education, I’m giving them the wings to soar while still keeping a safety net below them.
This isn’t about making my kids struggle; it’s about equipping them with the tools they need to thrive independently. It’s about creating a dynamic where they actively contribute to their own success, which is a far more valuable lesson than any textbook can offer.
The 75% solution isn’t just a financial strategy; it’s a life strategy. It’s about raising children who are not only well-educated but also resilient, resourceful, and grateful for the opportunities they have. After all, the journey to success is as important as the destination, and my goal is to make sure my kids are prepared for both. So, let’s embrace the 75% solution and set our kids on the path to success with open hearts and open minds.