Q. I am 24 years old and living with my parents. I have yet to earn a degree despite 6 years of college under my belt (I changed schools and majors several times) I am overwhelmed by college loans and have no way to pay for finishing school right now. I am working in an unsatisfying job, but at least I have healthcare. In my free time I write. What advice can you give me? I feel sort of hopeless and helpless about my situation in life. I am planning on buying your latest book just as soon as I have the money. Any advice you can give me would be greatly appreciated!
A. I can see why you feel frustrated. It's hard for many college students and grads to try to get into something satisfying while paying off loans, etc. My first recommendation is to see if you can consolidate your loans. One monthly payment can be easier to manage and you may wind up paying less. I know loans can be overwhelming, but I encourage people to get their degree at all costs. If you finish school (try a state school to save a little dough) you can defer your loan payments for a while while you work and take classes. If you're not sure what you want to do, go with the route that will either give you a broad degree (English, business, etc.) or whatever credits will transfer to give you any Bachelor's degree. As you know, many people never go into their degree field and you've emailed one of them:)
Living with your parents may be a drag, but at 24 I don't think it's so bad. Right now it seems the smartest to prioritize. If you only have a year of classes left, maybe you can defer your loan payments, get your degree, get a better-paying job, and then see about moving in with a roomate.
I really hope my advice has helped. Remember that you are not alone in all of this. It's best to get that nasty degree out of the way while you're younger. Once you've got the money situation under wraps, it makes it easier to tackle other aspects of 20-something life, like getting out of your rents house.
Ask Kristen your question about 20-something life here!
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