For a kid now days who is determined to go to college, I would strongly suggest Junior College or Community College. Figure out your 4 year University of choice, then find a JUCO or CC that has lots of classes that transfer to that university. Not only will it be a lot cheaper, but it also gives some time for a kid to resolve what he wants to do without spending a mint in tuition. Also, the kid should be able to make grades at least a letter grade higher than what they would get at a large University.