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By the time my son graduates from college, I'll be nearing retirement. I'm willing to pay for his BA but not grad school. Am I being selfish? --S., Birmingham, Ala.

Your son can take out a loan; you pay the interest until he finds a job after graduation. Then he can pay the loan (and maybe even repay you). This should take the pressure off him and you. --Tom, Boston

Too many parents feel obligated to promote their children while putting themselves in the poorhouse. To paraphrase Warren Buffett, give your kids enough to do anything, but not enough to do nothing. --J.C., Danville, Calif.

Your son can get a loan, teaching assistantship, or part-time job to help pay for school. But no one will be helping you with your retirement. --Bonnie Hoppin, Johns Creek, Ga.

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