Last week in this section we highlighted the facts and consequences faced by college students who carry significant loan debt. The clip we chose pointed out how large student loan debts are causing millions to delay major life events. Today’s student debtors often lack the financial resources to live on their own, get married, or start a family. These are important cultural landmarks that for most people denote moving into a stable adulthood.
Now it’s one thing to read or hear about the strain onerous debt places on students. It’s another to hear it straight from those affected. The following four minute clip is a brief series of interviews with students who are burdened by the amounts they owe on their loans. We chose this clip because it shows people with differing degrees, majors, and debt amounts. The one thing they all have in common though is the frustration and pain of being underwater without a clear way out.
As you watch the video, it may be tempting to laugh or mock some of the students because of what they chose to study. I’ll gently remind you, those people wanted to improve themselves, and their lives, and were told loudly by us as a society that going to college was the “right” way to do it.
We plan on discussing this issue a lot at The Underemployed Life. We also know what you want to think, so tell us on our Community Board.