[ndriscoll]

For what it's worth, I went to University of Arizona (math) and I've done great in life. They and Rochester are the two main schools that specialize in optics (e.g. lasers and photonics and complex lens systems, not eyeglasses) as far as I know if that's an interest. Otherwise, if you have some time left to plan, see if you can reduce your income (e.g. by moving to part time work, planning to do a sabbatical, or retiring if possible) to avoid the shakedown.

[drillsteps5]

My oldest wants to do aerospace, my understanding is that Arizona is fairly good and has some connections to the industry. They slashed their merit aid last year though due to financial problems and the advice I read is to steer clear for at least couple years until they get the house in order.

We're looking at Alabama at this point, either Tuscaloosa or Huntsville, I think they're even less known/lower ranked but not that bad for aerospace. That'd likely be full ride (national merit semifinalist or finalist).

The advice about lowering income is valid. I don't even have to do anything the shitty IT jobs market took care of that for me :(