Why would the Selmer be the only one suitable to last through college? They're all professional-grade instruments.

The current YAS-62 is not their top-line pro model, but used to be. It is still a fine horn. You could get a lightly used late 1990's model 62 (when it was their top-of-the-line) for less than $1500. Any of the saxes mentioned could last a lifetime. I know a guy making money with an intermediate line Yamaha, and another who plays a student Conn (Model 16, I think) in a rock band. If it's set up right and doesn't leak, the player is more important than the particular horn. She should get the horn she likes best through rigorous testing. I recently bought an E.M. Winston tenor in really nice shape for under $1000 to play at some venues - rather than risk my Selmer Mark VI. Guess what - I still sound like me on this cheap horn. I was honestly surprised. I had always been a vintage horn snob. If she likes the Selmer - look around for a well cared for Reference horn. These are sometimes available around $2500. I passed on a Ref 36 Tenor at $2200, although practically new. I like the Ref 36 and 54 better than the Serie II and III models. Good Luck.