Reading the words “we regret to inform you that we are unable to” can conjure sadness, anger, or despair. Lesser-known ones can provide a great education at a reasonable cost, something the Washington Monthly has been touting for two decades in its annual College Guide. That being said, anyone who desires to attend a traditional four-year college or university should have the opportunity to do so. I applied to and managed to get into graduate school, earn a Ph.D., and become a tenure-track college track professor by age 30! For the mothers and fathers whose children are facing such a predicament, this would be sagacious advice to pass on.