So, I just started my first semester at university, and honestly, it’s been super challenging for me. I’m an international student, and when I got here, I had no clue how things worked in schools here in the U.S. At first, it was overwhelming, but over time, I started to adjust.

One of the hardest parts has been keeping up with assignments and documents because… I don’t have a laptop. Back home, I’d do most of my homework on my phone or on paper, so I didn’t think not having a laptop would be a big deal. But now that I’m here, I’ve realized how important it is. Literally everyone has a personal laptop, and I see now how much easier it makes everything.

The other day, I was at school working on an assignment, and this girl sat next to me with a laptop that I instantly fell in love with. It was a MacBook—I don’t know the exact model, but it was perfect. The color, the screen… everything. I looked it up later at Best Buy, and it costs between $1,400 and $1,600.

I told my dad about it, and he came with me to look at laptops, but he kept suggesting Windows laptops or HPs. And yeah, they’re okay, but honestly, they just didn’t catch my attention like the Mac did. Now, here’s where I’m stuck: I think he’s assuming that he’s the one paying for the laptop, and that’s why he’s pushing for something cheaper, like $400. But I’m planning to buy it myself with my own savings.

Even my mom thinks I should go for a cheaper laptop, and I get it—maybe I am being picky, or maybe it’s just me wanting the ‘nicer’ option. But I truly believe the Mac is worth it. I’m just worried that if I buy it, my dad might think I’m spoiled or that I only like expensive things.

What do you guys think? Am I overthinking this? Is it dumb to spend that much on a laptop when there are cheaper options, or does it make sense to invest in something good if I’m going to be using it all the time?