"deciding not to go to a "real" college" Who are you to put down anyone that goes to community college? CC is a "real" college that gives out real degrees. My wife went to a CC and got the same degree, job and pay as her co-worker that went to Temple for a lot less debt.
The reasons he opted to do what he decided are all logical, well thought out reasons. Loyalty, friendship is overlooked to often anymore. A 2nd yr of 18u especially at AA would have absolutely benefited him. To be 17 and wise enough to want to save $17000 is smart. I encouraged my kids to do the same.
Best of luck to him