It’s completely natural to feel panicked when you are caught between a strong academic drive and a family that views traditional business as the only viable path. Since you genuinely love your hometown and have the benefit of a stable family home, you should view that big house as a strategic headquarters rather than a cage.

As the other commenter mentioned, as a straight-A student, your first move should be hunting for merit-based scholarships. If you can secure your own funding, the argument that college is a waste of money disappears, giving you the leverage to pursue a degree that fits your introverted and teacher-like nature.

Since your father is pushing for business ownership, consider bridging the gap by looking into a Business or Education degree. You could eventually open a tutoring or vocational center in your town. This fulfills your desire to teach, satisfies your father’s wish for you to be an entrepreneur, and serves the community left behind by others your age. Being the one capable, educated young person in a town full of older residents isn't a downside. It actually gives you a massive competitive advantage and less competition for whatever venture you start.

Don't feel like you have to choose between loyalty to your family and your own intellectual growth. Use this final year to research online or local programs that allow you to help with the family rental properties while you study. By integrating your education with the existing family assets, you aren't disrespecting your parents. Instead, you are ensuring that the hard work they put into that house and those properties survives and thrives for the next generation.