The $150k+ isn't just to get your ratings. It's ratings + the college degree currently required by the majors. If you think it's possible to get a degree and all the required ratings for less than $150k, maybe mentor a student who is trying to do that. I think you will be surprised. I'm not saying it's not possible, I'm saying that on a daily basis I talk to people trying to do it, and that is the consensus.