An intentionally planned path can help mitigate the emotional highs and lows of important funding strategies. : Do you remember the last time you were on a plane? It may have been a while, so as a refresher, before takeoff, the flight attendant always reminds you to position your own oxygen mask before helping others. When it comes to saving for retirement vs. college saving, many college planners and financial advisers will take a similar approach—prioritize a parent’s retirement fund before the children’s college fund.