Use any of the money for non-educational expenses, and second, I had to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 throughout my college years.

At first, I didn’t think much of it. Seemed like reasonable conditions, right? But then they hit me with the kicker – they wanted access to my grades and financial statements at any time to ensure I was complying with their rules.

I felt a knot form in my stomach as the realization sunk in. They weren’t just giving me a gift; they were buying control over my college experience. Suddenly, the $10,000 felt more like a leash than a lifeline.

I tried to reason with them, explaining that I appreciated their generosity but felt uncomfortable with their conditions. After all, wasn’t college supposed to be about independence and self-discovery?

But my parents wouldn’t budge. They insisted that they were only looking out for my best interests and that I should be grateful for their support. They even threatened to withdraw the offer altogether if I refused to comply.

Feeling trapped and conflicted, I turned to the internet for advice, hoping to gain some perspective on the situation. But instead of finding clarity, I was met with a barrage of opinions, ranging from accusations of entitlement to sympathy for my predicament.

Now I’m left wondering – are my parents right to expect such strict conditions in exchange for their financial support? Or am I justified in feeling uneasy about the strings attached to their gift? As I grapple with these questions, one thing is clear – the road to independence is rarely as straightforward as it seems.