Is it worth going to an expensive private university or should I save money?

The reputation thing matters way less than people think it does honestly! I'd go state school and graduate with way less debt - that breathing room is gonna feel amazing when you're starting out, and employers care WAY more about what you actually did in college and your work experience than the name on the diploma.

I watched my sister take out massive loans for a fancy school back when we were younger, and honestly? The thing that stuck with me was how stressed she was about money for like five years after graduation. Meanwhile, I went to a state school and had way more flexibility to take risks - I could afford to do unpaid internships, take time to figure out what I actually wanted to do, even spent a summer just reading and thinking about my next move instead of panicking about rent.

The private school name might open some doors initially, but here's what actually matters more: what you do with whatever school you pick. Networking, projects you build, internships you pursue, skills you develop - that's what people actually care about when they're hiring. I've worked with incredible people from all kinds of schools, and I've also worked with people from prestigious places who coasted through. The debt load though? That follows you around and affects decisions you make for years. When you're entry-level and trying to figure out your career, having breathing room is worth way more than you probably think right now.

The state school is probably the smarter financial move, especially in 2026 when everything costs more anyway. You could always do something ambitious with the money you save - take classes elsewhere, do a project you're passionate about, travel somewhere that teaches you something. The private school's main advantage is the name, and honestly, that matters less and less the further into your career you get. Your actual work speaks louder.