1 answer
Johnelle
Student
New Jersey, New Jersey
1
Question
Asked
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What would the better option be work my dream job or work a job to pay off my debt?
What would you suggest would be the better option after I graduate college in a couple years, work towards my dream job or work at a job that would pay off my debt?
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1 answer
Paul Rogers
Solutions Engineer | Technical Consultant | Leadership Mentor
18
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hi Johnelle,
This is an incredibly important question — and honestly, there’s no "one-size-fits-all" answer. But here’s the leadership mindset I would recommend:
First:
If you can land a job that's connected to your dream field and pays enough to manage debt — that's ideal.
But if you have to pick one: prioritize momentum toward your dream over just chasing a paycheck.
Why?
Debt is temporary.
Career paths are long-term.
If you pick a high-paying but unrelated job, you might pay off your debt faster, but you risk getting stuck in a career you don’t love — and it’s much harder to pivot later.
Smart move:
Find a job that builds skills, experience, and connections that move you closer to your dream — even if it pays a little less at first.
Look for scholarships, side gigs, or part-time options to chip away at debt while you grow.
Big picture:
In the long run, working toward a meaningful career will put you in a better position financially, mentally, and emotionally than chasing short-term money.
You’re already ahead just by asking this — keep trusting yourself and choosing the path that builds your future, not just your paycheck.
Research early-career jobs that bridge into your dream field, even if they’re entry level.
Build a basic monthly budget now to prepare for life after college.
Seek out mentors already working in your dream field for advice on smart first steps.
This is an incredibly important question — and honestly, there’s no "one-size-fits-all" answer. But here’s the leadership mindset I would recommend:
First:
If you can land a job that's connected to your dream field and pays enough to manage debt — that's ideal.
But if you have to pick one: prioritize momentum toward your dream over just chasing a paycheck.
Why?
Debt is temporary.
Career paths are long-term.
If you pick a high-paying but unrelated job, you might pay off your debt faster, but you risk getting stuck in a career you don’t love — and it’s much harder to pivot later.
Smart move:
Find a job that builds skills, experience, and connections that move you closer to your dream — even if it pays a little less at first.
Look for scholarships, side gigs, or part-time options to chip away at debt while you grow.
Big picture:
In the long run, working toward a meaningful career will put you in a better position financially, mentally, and emotionally than chasing short-term money.
You’re already ahead just by asking this — keep trusting yourself and choosing the path that builds your future, not just your paycheck.
Paul recommends the following next steps: