I filed my FAFSA for next school year today. I must admit, I had a little burst of glee when I finally got to check the "born before 1986, therefore independent" box. My elation did not last long however, for the next screen involved household size. I'm a household of one! I didn't realize that the federal government finally allowing me to file as an independent also meant that they no longer see me as part of my parents family! I guess I should have, and I actually had a conversation with a friend about this very subject just yesterday, but, having to enter only a one in that box really made it hit home. I'm a little bit saddened now.