Affordable College & Living Options for State Residents with Low Income

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding affordable college and living options for low-income state residents interested in pursuing a physics degree. Participants explore various public universities, living costs, and residency requirements across different states, with a focus on balancing educational opportunities and financial constraints.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant is considering moving to a state with a public university that has a decent physics program while keeping costs low, including affordable apartment rents.
  • Another participant mentions that a 1-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles typically costs around $900-1000, which may be challenging given the budget constraints.
  • Concerns are raised about the high living costs in California, with suggestions that many towns there are expensive and may require two months' rent upfront as a deposit.
  • Residency requirements for in-state tuition in California are highlighted, indicating that one must live in the state for over a year to qualify.
  • Michigan is suggested as a cheaper place to live, although job availability may be a concern.
  • Madison, Wisconsin is noted as having relatively low living costs and good job availability, with one participant recommending it for its affordability.
  • Participants discuss the University of Wisconsin-Madison's physics program ranking, with conflicting reports on its position in national rankings.
  • UC-Irvine is mentioned as an alternative option, with a participant sharing insights about its math and physics departments and suggesting nearby areas with potentially lower rents.
  • Concerns about job availability in Urbana-Champaign are raised, with references to local companies that may offer employment opportunities.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the affordability of living in California versus other states. While some suggest specific locations as more affordable, others emphasize the challenges of finding jobs and meeting residency requirements for in-state tuition. No consensus is reached on the best state or university options.

Contextual Notes

Participants note various limitations, including the need for a waiting period for in-state tuition eligibility and the variability of job availability in different regions. Additionally, living costs are subject to change based on location and market conditions.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering moving to a new state for college, particularly those with low income seeking affordable living and educational options in physics and related fields.

  • #31
Do airports allow boxed luggage (in other words, instead of a suitcase its a box)?
 
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  • #32
Yes, as long as it can fit under the plane. I think.. check with the airline
 
  • #33
vociferous said:
Sharing an apartment/house with roommates is not so bad. Most college students do it.

I didn't have an apartment to myself until I finished graduate school and got my first job!
 
  • #34
jtbell said:
I didn't have an apartment to myself until I finished graduate school and got my first job!

Yeah...I would be saving a good amount of money.

ParisAsta said:
Yes, as long as it can fit under the plane. I think.. check with the airline

I see...heheh, boxes are cheaper than suitcases.
 

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