If Joanne’s objective is to maximize her five year savings her best choice is to attend a junior college. She will save $3,000 more by attending junior college at the end of five years.
If Joanne decides to enter the work force directly out of high school she will earn a total of $97,500 ($19,500 per year for 5 years). After paying her living expenses $75,000 ($15,000 per year for 5 years), she will have a savings of $22,500.
If Joanne attends a junior college she will work for three years and earn $112,500 ($37,500 per year for 3 years). She will pay expenses of $12,000 ($6,000 per year for 2 years) for her books and $75,000 for her living expenses. $112,500 - $12,000 - $75,000 = $25,5000