All the divorce papers I've ever seen, including for poor residents of Harlem, included orders for college support past 18. My father was going to pull me out of high school to punish me. The local grocery store, where I was supposed to bag groceries my whole life, would not have allowed him to monitor me. I believe lawyers and judges are gung ho about college. My parents did not oppose it but it was not encouraged. I notice that people who attended elite prep schools and colleges will make any sacrifice to have the same advantage for their children. Strangers encouraged me.
B/c I was a student newspaper editor, I knew a bit of the law governing older teens. Also, I knew ACLUs lawyer and Kunstler would take my case. My plan was to speak to the judge my heart and soul. Even my nasty teachers would testify on my behalf. I had enough savvy regarding local politics to know that no elected judge in NJ was going to deny me an education. Altho my politics were radical, I planned to become a good American.
I had older women in my classes at Barnard/Columbia. Most had been coeds and married for love. They were so sophisticated and friendly. It was great having an older person around who was not a parent or a prof. There was no way I was going to drop out and marry after listening to them. One of the most popular students at law school was 64. We used to sing Sgt. Pepper when talking about him. He had a thriving business until he handed it over to his sons. They ejected him. He was going to start another business when he graduated. Much later, I met older students at a community college. I was one of the older students.
I feel there are abudant resources for scholarships and grants in the USA. Of course, Congress can not fund these programs. In fact, I saved money by attending a prosperous college. If I had to pay state tuition, it would have been a sacrifice. I could cry when I see poor people paying tuition at a for-proft school when they could go to a much better place for less money. Every decent college should make arrangements. In fact, I had a small inheiritance from my father. My family had no experience with manipulating the system. I was told that it was time for me to visit Europe for the summer. Witness me going to Europe. I had a plane ticket in two days time. Other parents bought Mercedes or had the house remodeled. I always fear that some working class or poor student is going to feel that they can't afford a first rate college. There are things I postponed b/c of money. Today I would suggest that the college call alumni for a loan.
I have a following among young people based entirely on rock'n'roll. It is never too late to finish something. Certain things are easier at certain ages. College is hard for almost anyone. So many people here accomplished so much at a young age with family not supporting them. I wish I had the chutzpah now than I did then. Of course, I've met craftspeople who do very well.
