<prompt> Human: Been looking more and more into my future and how I will look to further my education and career. I have had a pretty commendable high school career with a good GPA 5.245.0 and a solid ACT score 2936. I look to study Mechanical Engineering, but that being said the field is extremely competitive. I have thought about applying to big, Nationally acclaimed schools but the thought of crippling debt and loans is more than what I am looking for. How should I look into my future? Should I stay local? Perhaps junior college for undergrad work? How are some of the experiences you all have had with combatting loans and what are some opportunities I can take to minimize these? All advice is appreciated. Thanks!  <response>: Mech-E has had it rough the past couple years according to the friends I have in that major.The job market and opportunities has been very limited compared to other engineering fields. Thats a personal preference what you want to study, but just wanted to share my 2 cents.It really depends how much debt you want to take on, how much your parents can help pay, and what sort of experience you want.If strictly looking at costs, going to a junior college for 2 years to finish out general education courses and undergraduate requirements, and then transferring can save you A LOT of money.The downside would be that you miss out on two years of experiences at your dream college, especially as a freshmensophomore when everyone is getting to know each other and are making connections.You can still form those connections later on when you transfer as long as you stay involved on campus work on campus, join clubs, go to socials, etc.That said, weigh those factors for yourself and see what you really want, and what your situation best allows. 