Parents always seem to know best, don’t they? There have been countless times in my life where I found myself making a mistake and thinking, “My mother would definitely say, ‘I told you so’ right about now.” Well, this woman on Reddit is one of those parents who knows what’s best for her daughter.
She took to Reddit’s AITA (Am I The A**hole) thread to share her story about her 17-year-old daughter’s entitled attitude towards her college fund. And let me tell you, what she decides to do will bring a smile to your face!
A Mother’s Dedication
From the moment her daughter was born, this mother and her husband started setting money aside for their daughter’s college fund. As the years went by, they managed to save an impressive $200,000. This is no easy feat considering the soaring costs of higher education in the US.
To put things into perspective, attending a public college for four years can cost around $104,108 for in-state students and $108,364 for out-of-state students. Meanwhile, private nonprofit universities can charge a staggering $223,360 over four years. So, it’s safe to say that this mother’s dedication to saving for her daughter’s education is commendable.
The Daughter’s Decision
However, things took a turn when her daughter expressed her desire to take a break from education and get a job instead of immediately pursuing a four-year degree. Initially, the mother accepted her decision, but she later found out that her daughter wanted access to the money saved in her college fund.
The Importance of Saving for the Future
The mother, realizing the importance of having funds available if her daughter decides to go back to school in the future, declined her request. This sparked a heated debate between them, with the daughter insisting that she is entitled to the money regardless of her decision to attend college.
Seeking advice on Reddit, the mother asked if she was in the wrong for her stance. The overwhelming response was in her favor. Many shared stories of their own children taking a gap year but eventually going to college. They emphasized the importance of preserving the funds for its intended purpose.
One user commented, “If it’s for college, it’s for college. If she chooses not to go, then you can decide what to do with it as it’s your money. It’s not her money.”
Planning for Your Child’s Future
As parents, we want the best for our children. Saving for their education is a wonderful way to ensure that they have opportunities for a bright future. While it can be difficult to navigate decisions regarding the use of the funds, it’s important to consider the long-term implications.
So, what do you think about this situation? Would you give your child access to the college fund, or would you keep it safe for their future education? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
