Grandparents should lob softball over college choice

Dear Amy: We have been fortunate to set aside money for our grandkids’ college education. The first grandchild is graduating in June.

She has been hesitant about starting college next fall and is thinking about a gap year.

Her parents are anxious for her to attend a small private school and play softball, even though she will not receive a scholarship.

Granddaughter seems daunted by the cost, which will result in sizable student loans. She is a good student.

My spouse and I know our gift does not give us a voice in choosing a school, or profession, but we’d like to find a way to advise our granddaughter.

We think she should take a gap year if she wishes, forget about softball and enroll in a community college or a state school to limit her debt.

Can you offer any suggestions? — Grandparents

Dear Grandparents: Your contribution to your granddaughter’s education DOES give you a “voice.” It does not give you a “choice,” however.

In my opinion, your ideas are practical and, respect her right to forge her own future.

A gap year would enable her to earn money to put toward her education.

I think you should share your very reasonable thoughts with your granddaughter and her parents.

You should NOT offer any value judgment about her options to pursue her sport. She has made a tremendous investment over the years in her athletic pursuit. Playing a sport at the college level can be a wonderful and enriching experience — regardless of any possible scholarship money attached to it.

This should be her choice, not her folks (or yours).