Rachel
Is it really worth all the debt to go to college?
Debt scares me #graduate
2 answers
Sean McEvoy
Sean’s Answer
Going to college can be a great choice for your future. I know it can be tough, especially with the high costs. If paying for college right away seems hard, that's perfectly normal. You could start at a community college and then transfer to a university.
If you decide to go straight to a university, taking online classes can help save money. You won't have to pay for housing or meal plans, just tuition, course fees, and textbooks, which can often be found at a lower cost.
Applying for financial aid is also a great idea. It can really help with expenses and make things less stressful.
I wish you the best of luck, and whatever you choose will be a good decision for you. You'll be in a good position financially, so there's no need to worry.
Linda Hurt
Linda’s Answer
I think it is very important to go to college; however, there are ways the experience can be less expensive. First I would recommend that you take your basic courses at a community college whose credits will transfer to the school of your choice. A community college is a way to earn credits in a more economical way.
Also, you should determine how much it is going to cost (loan-wise) to earn your degree in 4-5 years. If the cost is $80,000 for a degree in social work, whose average salary is $52,595, (according to Salary.com) you might want to re-think going into that field or the college you are choosing,
If, however, you want to major in Aerospace Engineering, that cost would be acceptable because your ability to pay back the loan is much better.
In addition, there are a number of scholarships available to students going into college, both scholastic as well as generic. Talk to your guidance counselor at school who can give you the resources for all types of scholarships.
I hope this helps, but yes going to college is definitely worth it. Good luck!