I agree with you that most schools have several tiers for students to choose from based on income levels. I think, since HPU has so many new buildings in the last 10 years compared to other colleges, it often gets singled out for the “rich” atmosphere. While in realty it is just a lot of new and that is attracting people.
Having said all that, I think you have to match a school academically for you child- not only in coursework but also in number of students to professor ratio, look at majors your child wants, and then look at the other activities the school offers to well round your child out.
I did have two go to HPU and one go to St John’s University in Minnesota. All three got good educations and all three got employed. St Johns fit my son’s desire for a smaller school close to home. And for my girls HPU fit their desires with opportunities, and degrees.
In terms of cost- we paid the same for HPU as we did for St Johns University even though St Johns was way behind in terms of dorms, choices, and classrooms- most were stuck in the 70’s in looks and feel. So those who think it “costs more due to the newness” we didn’t find that to be true. What we did find is we got more for our money there.
But the key thing is all of my children made great friends, got a good education, and got jobs that fit them. So go a lot on your own child and if the “people” on campus feel like her people.
