America's Student Debt Crisis: Jessie's Story | Consumer Reports

[@ryannt]

Go to a community college first then transfer your credits. It will save you at least $25000

[@nagilumx6715]

Better idea: Trade school.

[@mrgarybusey2052]

@@nagilumx6715 Or better idea: Experience

[@brendakabanda2181]

@@nagilumx6715 I have heard of that too. People need to get good career advice.

[@PrayerWarrior4]

Agreed! People never check that option, heck when I went to Jr college first when I was 18 I learned through a professor that teenagers in high school get free units, I imediantly called my mom 5 mins later and told her to look things up before I got home (I lived and communuted from home to save money) to see if my little brother was eligible. He was 14 when he got in, and got some friends in too for simple classes, because getting in to get priority for future classes is important when getting classes. Both of us got our associates, he more than me, and got a free transfer to a state university where both of use finished getting our Bachelors DEPT free! I'm taking time to work for a while, just got engaged, and save for a better home with future spouse. My little brother is already married, has a newborn, owns a home, works a full time and part time job, one works in his field, has no dept, and working for his masters online and just might have it in less than a year. All because he got an earlier start, much better alternative than the public high schools... Also, if you start in community colleges and transfer to university, they never look at the high school credits because they would only care about the college credit from there vs started straight out of high school.

[@pmanuel1026]

Thankfully where I live if you get good grades in h.s and do community service, you get 2 years of college free

[@harrydiaz8122]

You should not be able to get a loan approved for more than your degree’s average income.

[@wizzyno1566]

That would be an excellent idea.

[@666dynomax]

Shouldn’t be any loans

[@facehairteeth]

People need to take personal responsibility. There are many tools to succeed in the US. Not everyone needs to or should get a college degree. If you come from poverty but are willing to make the dedication and work to get an expensive degree to change your family history then why should you be deprived of that opportunity because a bunch of people that failed to understand their loan terms got upset and blamed someone other than the person actually responsible: themselves.

[@gliza]

@@facehairteeth every loan forgiven is only forgiven to the person who initially agreed to accept the money. But that debt doesn’t magically go away. Every tax payer is now dedicating their labor in exchange to pay back a bit of those “forgiven” loans. Is it not the truth? Is that not how it works? Doesn’t matter if taxes raise in direct correlation of how much student loan debt is forgiven for however long it takes to pay off these loans, or if they print new money and give it to the government. All newly printed money is just more of the inherent debt we all incur when more money is put into circulation anyway, so printing more money to pay for these loans still means we are all now fiscally accountable for the loans others sought out, voluntarily signed legally-binding contracts for, willingly accepted the money for numerous years, and only when it comes time to hold up their side of the deal do they say it isn’t fair. But it’s fair for all of us to pay it for you? How is that not selfish? I struggle to see it any other way. With that said, I think we should cut student loans from the federal level, leave it to each state to decide based on schools in their states (IF certain states even want to have student loan programs), and if we have to help clean up the mess caused by people who now shamelessly declare themselves the victims, then so be it. What’s the alternative? They develop humility, resilience and self-accountability? That would be nice, but sad to say, I just don’t see that happening with this crowd. We have to carry their weight.

[@alan0004]

​@@facehairteeth And because poeple like you things don't change, you think it's all a fairy tale where you have everything at your disposal but the thing is they don't teach you those tools necessary to succed in school, the place where you are supposed to gain guidance for your life, you also complained that people failed to understand their loan terms, guess what buddy, they never teach/warn them about that, and lastly college are always increasing their payments since students with no financial education can take unlimited loans. And if you think "Duh WoRk HarDer" if you can hardly avoid these predatory practices it doesn't make them less predatory, if this happens to thousands of people because similiar reasons and conditions, it's not their fault it's they systems fault.

[@chris566219]

Just so all of you know, she just paid her student loans off in Nov 2018 and just did her debt free scream today on Dave Ramsey's show. You can stop harping on her as she stepped up the plate and bettered her life instead of living the life of a victim. Proud of you girl!

[@Seeker0fTruth]

Chris Silva Seriously???

[@stkbruh]

She was exploited weirdo

[@666dynomax]

That’s awesome

[@malloryjohnson6192]

Thanks for sharing! The video left me totally hopeless and sad for her decisions, but she totally made the right call when following Dave Ramsey!!! Wohoo!!!

[@laraantipova389]

@@Seeker0fTruthyes she did I remember her too

[@Obzerver_One]

There's no point in beating a dead horse. She was kind enough to share her story for others to learn from her mistakes. Going to college today and entering today's job market is vastly different than it was 10-20 years ago. In fact, going to college or graduate school for any major could be a huge gamble. I have friends who went to law school, med school, got their MBAs who are in a similar situation as her. Stay positive, keep your head up, and don't let these other people pull you down Jessie.

[@Jay-hp9jz]

Andrew Watson even stem degrees such engineer majors are having issues finding jobs

[@mrdanielleebrown]

+jessiesuren Well, I met you when you worked at Sundance when I was contemplating my next vacation lol. I shouldn't have been with all my debt college debt in all lol. If I would have known, than I would have asked you about student debt advice too. Joking!

[@samusaran181818]

I totally agree with you! I really like your advice!

[@RETIREMESOON]

I do........Not buy this girls story. Need money but I don't want to work in Law Enforcement.....my degree. She either was turned down for mental issues or a criminal past. I had top scores for the Police but I had anxiety issues

[@papermario2169]

lol get the fuck out of here if u graduated med school ur gettin hired doctors are in such high demand tf kind of shit is this law school yeh but med school?

[@lmn222002]

We need to stop this idea that kids need to start college right after high school...They need to continue to develop and obtain life skills so they can see what degree they should pursue and how they can afford it...Education is the new Military Industrial Complex

[@clerickolter]

I started out as a Busker doing clown makeup wearing street magic, clowning and playing my instruments with a troupe in Europe and learned over eight years three languages and then tutored in those languages at $12 and hour. That was in1992 and now tutor in History, Mathematics and several sciences for home schoolers one on one for $20 an hour and teach small classes for $50 an hour [up to six children ]. And ZERO student debt.

[@thesun-N-moon8885]

If they’re old enough to vote and serve the country?!!

[@jwc3104]

This girl paid off all her student loan debt in Nov 2018, following Dave Ramsey advice. Congratulations!!!

[@georgesorosghost7244]

Source?

[@mph5896]

Source please?

[@kylfra06]

JWC - you are so awesome! Great job. I’m doing better than I deserve, too!

[@erik6937]

@@kylfra06 Good for you!

[@andhisband]

@Jamie Curtis Congratulations! Good for you! I'll bet you feel so free now.

[@jasonhale770]

In the words of Dave Ramsey: "Broke people should NOT be going on vacation!"

[@richardgoode5314]

As a not to be affordable as to a not to travel.

Can't think for yourself?

[@me_not_me]

I love Dave 🤣

[@ab43134]

In the words of Dave ramsey "her ass is debt free now, so worry about your damn self"

[@thesun-N-moon8885]

That is why a large majority of poor people stay poor. They love to look rich. It says she paid off her loans I hope she did because she had no care about her mother retiring it seemed! Imagine paying a stranger 400 a month to live in a room when you could be using some of that money to pay off debts you incurred on other people’s names. But maybe her mom put her out, who knows!

[@sapphiresorceress7007]

When I graduated from HS in 2011 I kept asking adults arnd me how long it took them to pay off their student loans. They kept telling me they’d be paying them off till they were in their 30’s. I was disgusted by the fact that everyone kept acting like that was ok. American teens r being advised by sheep. I’m so sick of it 😤

[@tearl5676]

It's called "work" for a reason.

[@thesun-N-moon8885]

Maybe Harris is right… 18-24 year old college students are stupid… 🥴

[@Joeyblondewolf2]

I pay about $300-$400 a month for my student loans. The payment is really only $85 but that's how they get you. The interest will increase and that $85 won't do shit. I'm happy I finally have a great job that helps me pay them off. My credit is looking pretty awesome too ;)

[@diegolara4202]

The numbers you mentioned are impossible. Unless you have a ridiculous high interest rate then you need to refinance soon. A 300 to 400 a month payment would not pay 85 in principal it would pay more. The payments are scheduled to be paid off on a certain date so a certain percentage goes to the principal and a certain is interest so that it will be paid off by the payoff date. People who say that each payment is only increasing their balance are lying because that is now how student loans work. If you make your payment each month they will be paid of on the due date. What you may be talking about is income based repayment plan, which means you are paying much less than the regular monthly payment. You choose to get in that program to minimize your monthly payment, but you end up never paying it off.

[@HistoryBuff1973]

Great job.

[@thesun-N-moon8885]

Sounds like a typical credit card bill… 😂

[@mxachary]

Financial literacy is more important than taking AP calculus. Everyone should understand the basics of a loan because our society is fueled by debt

[@nagilumx6715]

Because this society is about controlling you by loaning you instead of freeing you by paying you what you're worth.

[@brendakabanda2181]

I agree

[@goldengalsclazy]

If someone is going to be an engineer, then they'd definitely need to take calculus. Otherwise, they wouldn't be a very competent engineer.

[@AmeliaGW3]

I used to have a really hard time when I saw photos posted by friends of mine who went to college out of state. A lot of my friends all moved to New York City together to go to arts school and for years I felt like I was wasting my life on in-state tuition in Albuquerque. But now that we've graduated, I realize those poor friends of mine took out $100K+ in loans each, and those four amazing years really cost them. I have a good job with my economics degree making 57K a year. I graduated 2.5 years ago and I only have $2400 left to pay back until I am debt free. As a result I plan on going back to school to get my MBA soon so I can learn even more. Being a debt-free 25 year old with a good salary means I will get to travel all over the world, buy a house, and start saving for retirement at a young age. All those things I missed out on right after high school are now things I get to enjoy. College is ABSOLUTELY worth it. I wouldn't trade my experiences at university for anything. Just (and I know this hurts to hear) DO NOT major in something unless you see a clear path to repay your loans ahead of you. Liberal arts degrees are a risk, and there is nothing wrong with picking a practical major and minoring in something you really love. Never be afraid to take a gap year after high school. Never be afraid to spend your first year or two at a community college to get your life in order before you go into debt. Being cautious from a young age will oftentimes buy you much more freedom as you get older.

[@mph5896]

Nice work! Its the old story of party now or party later.

[@mwilliams1330]

great work, I have shared similar stories about my kids above. Nothing wrong with waiting a year, or taking core classes at community college until you mature a bit and find yourself. My kids did not graduate till they were 24/25...pretty much debt free. That year or so extra seems like and eternity when you are 18, but in the scheme of a long life is really nothing.

[@tornexted5029]

Such an amazing story. I'm about to graduate high school in a couple months and I feel confident that I won't be misled unlike a bunch of my friends that are about to be misled. If you don't mind me asking you this, what's your job?

[@sketchyjulia]

I actually want to go to an arts school, but I want to major in Animation, so hopefully things will work out 😬

[@nihilisticbarbie]

@@sketchyjulia better get another job on the side until art can pay the bills. This is just practical advice, especially if your parents aren't gonna help continuing to support you.

[@LadyFay88]

Babygirl needs to have a talk with Dave Ramsey

I bet you can't get through one day in life without Dave Ramsey telling you what to do moron

[@monkeyface732]

She was actually in the Dave Ramsey Show to do her debt free scream

[@adamsaldana5462]

She just did. And it's debt free

[@sweetofferings8048]

I was thinking the SAME thing! lol :)

[@sweetofferings8048]

@ We just paid off all of our consumer debt ($190,000), the bulk of which was student loans, using Dave Ramsey's method. It took us 5 years to do it. I wouldn't call being able to KEEP every single paycheck I earn, "moronic". Say what you want about Dave Ramsey, his method, his theory, but IT WORKS. If you dig in, make a plan, and stop spending all your money on your WANTS, it can be done. I know people with less than half of the student loan debt we had and less than what Jessie had, who also work salaried jobs in a house hold with 2 people working, and no kids who are convinced they will drag their debt to their grave with them. For MANY people, POOR is a state of mind. Especially if you've got a degree and you are able bodied with nothing to show for it.

[@larryh502]

This woman has $90,000 in loans to pay and she takes a trip to panama? she needs to learn priorities.

[@elizagaskell7957]

I thought I heard sad violin music in the background when she talked about her debt...then she mention Panama. WFT

[@salpine]

She probably works constantly and that was one of the last, few breaks in life she may have had since this all started. She's working and paying off her shit to her family. I do think something is missing here between the super low rent bedroom and nice car, but then again, maybe she's had nothing for a long time and treated herself with decent vehicle. Sometimes people grow and maybe she actually is learning about investment and what's important. Best of luck to her, I know she was naive as hell and young and those numbers seem unreal anyway. The system and predatory loans with horrible conditions like this can systematically break down an entire family. That's so sad.

[@danielfarrell9161]

it was a booze cruise. so even worse

[@cooperscreditconsultingint6792]

Boom!! Smh....

[@andhisband]

@@salpine First rule for getting out of a hole: STOP DIGGING!

[@buffteethr]

People need to look at Community College and State schools. I worked with a kid who got his engineering degree at a state school. He had just graduated and had NO loans. The state school was $10k a year and he lived with his parents and worked part time to pay his way.

[@shimmer4771]

It depends on what state you live. Community College can be expensive. In fact, it takes a lot for certain majors. Some people can't afford none of these.

[@hackedNPCPIN]

BuffteethrBlog you smart

[@ladhkay]

Same, in-state rocks!

[@user-ru2yk3wq5z]

True but if you did go to school and got in debt data engineer degree will get you far in life he can pay back student loans as soon as he gets out of school because they're that he didn't major in worthless crap

[@GoogleGebruiker]

Everybody makes fun of Community College, but it's affordable and good.

[@going2sleep]

College is outdated. You don’t need to go a big fancy campus. Solution is to go to community college (2 yrs), major in something that is in demand, sign up for scholarships, file for govt grant, WORK during the summer full time, and get some help from family. Avoid expensive universities.

[@kloikrules]

This is what happens when you tell people in high school to go to college and major in something rather than nothing. School has to stop telling people that college is the only way in life to “make it”. Why not encourage investing or trade schools and maybe starting your own business and being in charge of your own personal economy?

[@ems3991]

CreativeUsername9000 Most people don't have the organization or work ethic to run their own business. And small businesses have a failure rate of around 50% in the first few years.

[@LegoSwordViedos]

Goverment regulations and red tape kill alot of them it's not that people don't have the work ethic it's that the legality and restrictions make it pointless to try.

[@PrayerWarrior4]

Better to community colleges, which get a bad rap a lot, for a short time, to gain perspective, finish getting general ed credit that is cheaper, learn about one self and what options are out there, and do research prior to university or career to know what your getting into...

[@goldengalsclazy]

Starting your own business is extremely difficult both mentally and financially. It's not just a matter of being wise and hard-working. It takes real money to start one's own business. If it were that easy, then more people would start their own businesses. Not everyone is business-minded, or has the talent for running their own business. One size fits all doesn't apply to education. Some people aren't academically gifted and some people aren't made for being plumbers, or construction workers.

[@kv2723]

@@LegoSwordViedos Exactly.

[@Copics1]

90K in debt? Try 400K for studying fine arts at a NYU or such... Once you apply for this kind of major in these schools, there is already a subway station corner with your name on it.

[@superhamz7]

lol, i feel bad for anyone not taking a stem degree

[@irrsinnslicht1]

I have a master of fine arts in paiting from academy of fine arts Vienna and guess what - it was free :) Still a useless degree tho.

[@joshuacollins7398]

I try college for semester. It wasn't for me. Today I own my own house. My car is paid off. I have no student debt. I feel sorry for these students and what college promised them.

[@michaelc2472]

Let me borrow 5$ dawg

[@TheAprilShow27]

What do you do for work?

[@sketchyjulia]

I mean nowadays a Bachelors Degree is equivalent to last generation’s high school diploma

[@petergriffin1387]

Depends what people get there degree on nowadays if they get in on poetry then it’s going to be hard finding a job in that market. Nowadays a bachelors, masters degree or trade school certification is going to be required. No more getting grandfathered in a Job unfortunately.

[@keith819]

Ehh, community college is a thing yo. I never got this urge to go to the most expensive college possible

[@LancesArmorStriking]

What do easy classes have to do with her qualifications? She got the diploma and has already worked in her field. She's just not getting hired based on a salary- at least not one that she can live off of.

[@angelsface200]

In my area, a bachelor's degree is required for many jobs. An Associate's degree wouldn't cut it.

[@SOLDOZER]

angelsface200 She could have went to community college for 2 years, then transferred to a major university. I went to community college for 2 years then transferred to the University of Texas. Saved 50%. She also is a female with a criminal justice degree. Could have got a job as a cop in any city. Being a cop sucks but they have huge benefits and it would have taken care of the debt.

[@PokeYourEyez]

Y’all tripping. There are a lot of good paying jobs that pay $30/hour with just an associates degree.

[@yallhearsome8349]

Yup

[@jordanroberts7931]

$90,000 for a criminal justice degree. Well, there's your first problem right there.

[@goldengalsclazy]

It's not a waste of money. She can still go onto law school,grad school, or business school.

[@d.lawrence5670]

tell me about it, should have gotten a useful degree, for that kind of moolah

[@SbjsksmNx]

Lol

[@cafeta]

8:34 then she doesn't use it, LOL

[@oscarvegastudentsmartstart4944]

You can All apply for an IDR ( Income-Driven Repayment ) based on your family size, income, and whom you work for, we can also assist you today getting loan forgiveness and get you out of default, consolidate all your loans. Hollar 619 780-8377

[@loliwemoyo5680]

We need to go back to trade schools. A lot of people are going to university and studying courses that have little to no return value.

[@mboaz4730]

Totally true. And the Trade School usually has a hookup for a job when you get done!!

[@ab43134]

Or you could make college affordable which is the issue.....

[@RG-hf4et]

Trade schools are wonderful. These kids today want to be cool. They want to go where their friends go. "I'm 18 and I should be able to do anything I want in life." So stupid.

[@nihilisticbarbie]

You need all kinds of people in the world. Imagine if every single person went to trade school; there'd be an influx of HVAC specialists, plumbers, electricians, etc. And not enough work to go around. For all this bitching about soft skills such as critical thinking being useless, you all could sure use a refresher.

[@petergriffin1387]

I got a masters degree now on the GI Bill and decided to use what ever was left on it on trade school to be an electrician

[@denisemanier6871]

My daughter graduated with $27,000.00 in student loan debt, in May 2013...In five years she has paid off $21,000.00. It takes sacrifice to do it...but she borrowed it and and fully expected to pay it back. It’s a loan, like any other loan...another tip...do t go to such an expensive school!

[@marisastoneobrien7834]

Exactly, why can't she live with her mom. This women has a nicer car than I do, nails, hair, eyebrows. She needs to knuckle down and pay it off.

[@Feliciatanktop]

Denise Manier what did she do? I graduate soon and need some tips to pay off my loans. I live with my parents so rent and groceries aren’t an issue for me. And I commute to campus, which is 1-1.5 hours away

[@Numb_]

@@marisastoneobrien7834 I think she needs to look like that for her career.

[@FishCatsu]

Nice eyebrows don’t cost any more than a pair of tweezers but go off I guess

[@jewelgonzalez4034]

@@Feliciatanktop I would look into maybe getting a second job. Maybe something thats just 3 -4 days a week and just using that second paycheck just for student loans. Look into any ways to cut cost. Coupon, buy stuff on sale and every single time you get paid write down your expenses. Money management is the key and always make sure the first thing you do is pay your bills the next is save the money you have left over you can spend.

[@DietTimboSlice]

Why do I get the feeling she was like all those girls at my university who went out every other night partying while I was busting my butt studying for my engineering degree? I didn't go on any vacations to Panama either, my summers were spent working to save up for school. Then guess who's tax dollars would be paying to bail her out of her loans? No sympathy from me.

[@eebbeerrttpp]

Randy Sanders You dong get my sympathy either, fool.

[@nevermore3928]

I think you are right, she even said it herself, she went on a Booze Cruise while going to college. I didn't even drink booze in college, couldn't afford that let alone take a cruise?!?! I'm not at all surprised she has all that debt. I left college with no debt but it takes hard work and sacrifice.

[@erinoldcoot3381]

Boo fucking hoo.

[@directorbeau]

@hijackwannabev lies. Most of the girls at my school don't do shit except suck dick. No sympathy for those riding the cock carousel until they hit the wall.

[@hfortenberry]

Wow, I've gotten to where I don't like reading comments on KZbin anymore. Almost all are incredibly harsh and hostile and/or ignorant. She's not asking for a handout. She's telling her story and paying back her loans and has obviously learned her lesson. It's an extremely harsh lesson that she will pay for the rest of her life. There is no need to attack her character. Whatever happened to basic human compassion?

[@751abigail]

Aubrey Well said! I had the same reaction. She wasn’t asking for anything just putting herself and her lessons learned out there for people to learn from. It’s curious why people feel the need to attack her for that.

[@ianprado1488]

Exactly 🙌🙌

[@charlessteadjr2742]

Misery loves company

[@econdude3811]

Aubrey, you make a good point about compassion, but this person continues to make poor (pun intended) choices. She needs to work at least one more job on the side. I am also appalled at the late model car she is driving, probably bought with a regular loan payment. She is just not understanding being an adult, and becoming serious about eliminating the debt. Letting it balloon was itself a bad mistake. One route MIGHT be to move back in with mama bear, while working two jobs and agreeing that living rent free for a short time (even just a few years) will accelerate the process of paying off the loans her Mom is responsible for, the kind of win-win compromise that obviously is not inside of the box this person is trapped in!

[@fromthebackseat4865]

And who cares if she is asking for a handout? I’d gladly have some of my tax money go to people who need it. Because I have basic human compassion.

[@joekkl]

I'm not gonna lie. I love listening to these stories.

[@illegalalien6542]

Same. They're always great for a laugh.

[@brittneyhaggerty762]

She needs Dave Ramsey bad

[@aurorinezori9876]

Yes, definitely! Dave Ramsey all the way... (to France :)))

[@highlighted_reply]

No joke :) Dave is the man.

[@reddavis4808]

Or Clark Howard.

[@mikerice5298]

dave said there was no crash coming jan 2008 pull up the video radio show

[@mikerice5298]

dave said there was no crash coming in jan 2008 pull up the video on a radio show

[@Febreezy]

When I first attended college, I didn't realize how beneficial the financial decisions I made would affect me: going to school locally instead of my preferred school in San Francisco, FAFSA, taking the bus, working instead of clubs/sorority, living at home my first 2 years... Graduated with 10k in debt 6 months ago. Employed. 1.5k down. 8.5k to go.

[@robertz768]

She got a raw deal. No 18 yr old has a real understanding of life. She isn't complaining, she isn't asking for help, she is simply telling her story. Someone should have sat her down and made her write out a business plan as to how she was going to pay it back before she started...so she could get some insight at the time.

[@davester1970]

With each passing day, it is becoming less and less worth it financially to go to college anymore. If I had to do it all over again, I would say the hell with college and go to trade school instead. There is nothing wrong with learning how to be electricians, auto mechanics, plumbers, boilermakers, AC/heating repair, and welders. These are in demand real world skills one can learn in half the time or less than going to college and they command better wages than someone who graduated with a degree in a worthless liberal arts degree and with a fraction of the price tag. If one is enterprising enough, they can go into business for themselves.

[@912deborah]

David Reynolds but these jobs are also apart of the union. Certain ppl get in

[@james-p]

HVAC techs make good money, and their jobs can't be outsourced to India or China.

[@MrChadwke]

Not worthless, just overvalued.

[@rachel.7598]

@@kevindao1103 Good luck!

[@faithduruamaku2018]

💯💯💯💯💯

[@jacquelyngalliher7098]

OMG...lots of mistakes made by both child and parent. This was COMPLETELY preventable.

[@wcjeep]

She is taking responsibility for her actions. The video appears to be a well timed warning. College decisions are taking place for fall quarter. The video does not mention Government involvement. Bad Government policy has allowed increased student debt. Bad Government policy seems to have allowed colleges to increase the cost of college well above inflation. Why not trade schools? She could have a respectable trade job with solid pay and less debt.

[@ryushishiratori2312]

Blaming the government and suggesting for-profit institutions isn't the solution.

[@wcjeep]

The Government shares alot of blame with the college debt problem. I'm not blaming for-profit institutions. I'm blaming public institutions. The U.S. Government has made student loans easier to get. This has allowed public and private institutions to raise prices. These price hikes do not appear to be tied to inflation. Schools have no incentive to reduce class size. The more students enrolled the bigger their endowment. Maybe the increased funds pay for a new building or some boutique class that sounds great. It can not be a secret to public/private college that a set amount of students per year will drop out for various reasons. There should be an incentive to institutions to only allow entry to those most likely to graduate. This should not be all about grades. However, grades should weigh heavily on their entrance to college. The current system takes advantage of those not able to graduate. People who fail to graduate and those who never go to college are subsidizing a grand experience for those that do graduate. According to Forbes Magazine, after accounting for inflation, private institutions have raised tuition 46% since year 2000. Public institutions have raised tuition 94%. Why? Is the college experience 94% better? Are wages 94% better? Are graduates productivity 94% better? Politicians on both sides like to say how much more accessible college is today. The truth is college debt is more accessible. Trade schools championed by Mike Rowe train people in necessary programs with less debt with good pay. Usually with higher job placement.

[@highlighted_reply]

Well, government has made so much credit available to young unqualified borrowers, that schools are able to charge outrageous prices. They know the money is there for students to borrow. Furthermore they have done something similar with private loans: making them non-bankruptable. This level of credit being made is beyond insanity.

[@pimentocheesesandwich3065]

shay jefferson What about starting at your community college and saving to pay cash for school? Ask you Mom about it..have her watch this and other videos on the student loan problem.

[@klife7775]

wcjeep No excuses ! Get a extra job and pay off your debt.

[@oleanderpink4505]

I went to a state school CSULB, lived at home and worked full-time. No partying, no Spring break and I graduated debt free. It wasn’t fun but I never thought school was supposed to be fun. I was there to get an education.

[@catdog262]

Exactly

[@goldengalsclazy]

That's true. Some people think college is just about partying, and acting all crazy like it's 1999. College is real hardwork when you apply yourself. It also helps people in so many other ways too. It helps to build stronger critical thinking skills, and teamwork, etc.

[@grandmastergyorogyoro532]

Party all you want, but in back of the mind thought about debt will.still linger on.

[@swicheroo1]

I went to UCLA for undergrad. Did the same thing--lived at home and commuted. Got a 3.9 in my major. I did make the mistake of taking out a student loan I didn't need because my bro had this lame-brain idea to "invest" the money. That never really went anywhere and I spent it all. But the amount was so manageable that I paid it off in one fell swoop.

[@crystal2814]

I am glad you had that mind set and I did the same thing.

[@Scolecite]

The FIRST words in this video: " I did not really think about the finances." You don't say?!

[@ellengleason588]

More people should consider community college or in state college so you don't pay so much when youre not sure about the degree.

[@ceazeushepta8612]

How about not going to college and saving you some money at first place. You are still brainwashed thinking that college will you help you in your endeavors.

[@SOLDOZER]

Ceazeus, my lawn still looks like garbage. Get off the internet and get back to work....

[@PokeYourEyez]

Ceazeus Hepta it’s almost free to go to any community college. No need to save.

[@ems3991]

Duh. I never even considered private colleges.

[@itsmegp46]

These people who borrow so much money have to take personal responsibility. I've known too many college graduates with heavy student loan debt, once they get a good paying job, take on even more debt buying fancy cars, clothes, eating out every day for lunch, going out every single Friday and Saturday. Not to mention, moving out on their own right away. Then they have the unmitigated gall to complain how much they owe on student loans. Here is some advice: If you can, continue living with your parents, brown bag your lunch, keep that clunker a few more years, stay home and watch TV. At the same time, pay off that debt as fast as you can. Even add more each month to quicken the payoff time. This advice may not apply to everyone, but it does to a great many.

[@timmychanofficial]

itsmegp46 truth

[@yolandimare1]

This is the kind of practical advice that will actually help people.

[@Aznmf]

itsmegp46 dave Ramsey 101

[@rondierice4922]

A business person can take out loans ,and file bankruptcy if things do not work out.

[@dynamo3059]

haha ikr. maybe if they lived like a student for a year more after finding a good job they could pay off their balance. but no they gotta scale their lifestyle to the point where they don't have anything left to pay off the loans.

[@user-yn9oc8ii2o]

As an update, apparently Jessie is now debt free and documented her journey on her channel called The Cool Rich Aunt. She even was featured on Dave Ramsey's segment called Debt Free Scream. Just wanted to tell everyone since I was so happy for her when I stumbled onto her channel. :)

[@brookswoodward7278]

It’s neat how they figured out how to put “adults” into huge debt as soon as they turn 18.

[@ems3991]

Brooks Woodward 18-year-olds are consenting adults.

[@californiahandball]

Who's they? Who put a gun to her head? She took a vacation while she's in debt, and furthermore she got a degree she couldn't get a job in. She is still talking about traveling, while she has no money.

[@debbiepotter6413]

They should have went to trade school. Community colleges. Stop going on vacation. Buy a cheaper car. Get a degree that useful. There are a lot she could be doing

[@TSCBroken]

at 6:20 Jesse says 'they wouldn't set me up for failure, right?' indicating to me, as a non-american that even grasping the very basics of economics and mathematics is beyond this American generation. How is it that the american education system is so poor that an 18 year old high school graduate cannot fathom the burden of $90,000 in debt?

[@MegaBallPowerBall]

TSCBroken Because no one tells us how to do basic economics. I'm 22 and I know Pythagoras's theorem of A square + B square = C square but I have no idea how to write a check or deposit a check.

[@luzheaney8545]

You’re right, she was lacking common sense at 18, but there should still be laws against this. The same way a bank wouldn’t lend an 18 yr old $90K to buy a house, an 18 yr old shouldn’t be allowed to borrow that amt towards an education.

[@annonymsurfer3189]

+ Vivian Lee While i agree that everyone needs to take responsabillity for their bad decisions i also understand that the game is rigged. How else can you justify the fact that if me at 18 years old i can't get a loan to start a business or to buy a house, but i can take hundreds of dollars of debt for college? Because you can't default on college debt, that's why, so the game is rigged. Also, most people are dumbed down. I live in eastern Europe and even here most people want to go to college even though many can't afford it. When i was already in the 10th grade i already realised how big of a scam college is in the USA, so i didn't even bother to think about going In EU to college. I would make the same choice again. Even now, after a few years i still refuse to go, cause why should i? I can teach myself anything i want and i have too many subjects i'm interested in to go to college and focus on 1 thing while being fed 10 other subjects that are bullshit but required.

[@jacobthompson6265]

Graduating from community college in May with 2400.00 in debt and got a full ride to a state school. You have to be careful when you sign up. I’m a first generation and low income student.

[@kevinr3439]

Didn't you apply for FAFSA? If you're low income they should have covered your costs

[@codywaldron2486]

I am so glad that I never went to college. I recently just purchased my first truck as a truck driver and will make around 50-60k this year. Granted not gonna be buying a 10 bedroom beach house anytime soon but considering I don’t have a huge vehicle or student loan payment, I feel like I’m doing okay. To ANYONE that reads this: you can do it without a degree. For the last 20-30 years, far more kids graduate with degrees than with a job in their selected industry. Go to a trade school. Jobs like truck driving, electricians, plumbers, and construction workers are going through record lows and will continue to face a job shortage. Do not let anyone tell you that you have to go to school to make a good living.

[@1966johnnywayne]

Cody... the basis of your statement is true, however you're not going to be so cocky in 20 years when you're still making 50-60K as a driver. Technology will make much of the trucking industries labour demands obsolete combined with the suppressed wages due to increasing demand for truck driving positions as other men's jobs are also made obsolete by technology. Use that money wisely, invest in your future...Guys were making 60K driving truck back in the 80's...it isn't going to get better.

[@codywaldron2486]

1966johnnywayne While I appreciate your comment, there are quite a few drivers making six figures. When you own your own truck and trailer, you make 100% of the profits as I’m sure you can figure out. That’s also only one driver. Who’s to say that in 20-30 years, I can’t buy a couple more trucks and have people work for me. I understand where you’re coming from however, I doubt I’ll ever see a time when trucks get totally replaced. I’m not saying it couldn’t happen at all but there are just so many things that are transported by trucks and the technology for reliably safe, self-driving cars isn’t there. There’s a huge difference between wheeling a 15 foot Honda Civic around tight city blocks and 70 odd feet of truck and trailer through the same streets.

[@wonderboy4993]

Smart move. I got a job in a utility company. No college. I own a two family and am looking to buy my second house this year. NOT ONE dollar of college debt

[@GoogleGebruiker]

I'm going to Medical School, so yeah a Degree is needed in that case.

[@shapeshfters]

I am not saying that the trucking industry should burn down. However what happens the day after Walmart goes fully autonomous?

[@mlmla9078]

A nice new car, a Mac, can afford to travel aboad but can't pay off her loans..?

[@Mwoods2272]

She should get another job part time and sell some of her stuff, she has in her nice looking apartment. She was drinking Starbucks and she probably goes out. She isn't really serious about paying off the loans.

[@californiahandball]

@@Mwoods2272 Very true she wants her loan to disappear while not putting in the work to pay the loan off.

[@helixmoore7636]

Not true. They keep adding on interest and other fees. She could pay 1000 per month and it still wouldnt help.

[@zitawillingham4391]

You noticed that to

[@goodman5016]

How much Hyndai Elantra cost?

[@markbishop7589]

So many things wrong here, but glad she doesn't claim to be a victim. Also, mom was smart not to co-sign based on her daughter's behavior at the time. 1. Don't go to a school you cannot afford. 2. Don't EVER co-sign for a loan. There's a reason banks won't lend the person the money. 3. Parents, teach your children about money and financial obligations from an early age. 4. High Schools - your guidance counselors should be counseling. This includes counseling about the perils of borrowing money to go to a private university for a degree that doesn't have any (or very little) marketplace value. 5. Loan "forgiveness" programs are an absolute scam. VERY few people have their loans forgiven. It's a joke told by our federal government. 6. You and me. WE guaranteed a $72,000 loan to an 18 year old so she could get a criminal justice degree from a private university. SOLUTION: 1. End federally guaranteed student loans. This will drive DOWN the cost of colleges (fed guaranteed student loans are free money for universities). 2. High School seniors - choose a school that you can afford. Absolutely NOTHING wrong with 2 year community college then a 2 year state school (in-state). Also, apply for as many scholarships as you possibly can. I've been in business for almost 30 years, and outside of my close friends, not one person in business asked me where I went to college.

[@mboaz4730]

That is great. I am with you on ENDING guaranteed student loans, but what will any of that do for those that are already stuck in never ending student loan poverty now. These people can't save, they can never retire, will probably never own their own home. They are guaranteed welfare fodder and all anyone can says is "sucks to be you" and "glad I wasn't that stupid". These people need to be able to declare their Student Loans in a Bankruptcy, or at the least, not have their social security garnished when they can't pay.

[@jonmitchell40]

The biggest problem is getting a useless degree. What the hell does a degree in Criminal Justice get you?

[@AZ-vh5tf]

LOL right? Even most jobs as a police officer DON'T want you to have a degree in CJ.

[@elizagaskell7957]

I know, I thought the same thing. Now she wants to open a tourist show in the Panama's....a degree is useless if you don't use it for something.

[@jdsmith542]

A job in a travel agency, as it turns out. Business courses in a state university for a third of the cost would have gotten her the exact same job.

[@pcarebear1]

I'm so frustrated with her, she didn't even find out what career she wanted BEFORE applying. You should do that during junior or senior year in H.S. P.S. I was the very 1st in my family to go to college (my father didn't finish middle school) I didn't buy into the "college experience myth", went to federal loan seminars and I'm a firm believer you can make any degree work for you when you think outside the box.

[@eebbeerrttpp]

jon mitchell Your ignorance is appalling. With that degree you can join the police force or pursue a similar career. Moron!

[@withnonamemarketing]

I wasn't the smartest kid at 18, but I knew going to a state school would be way cheaper and a degree is just something to prove you can accomplish a field of study. Graduated, been making more than her for 7 years (same job, marketing), with yearly raises. Have saved up over six figures with a paid off truck and sailboat. I thought I'd be married and have a house now too, but the majority of girls have stories like this. With the economy I am a little worried about my job, but I guess I will just sail until I find a new one? This country is a mess.

[@michellecuevas2003]

+Bart H The problem is, I think, is that in our current job market, going to a cheaper institution is seen as detrimental to your credentials when it concerns competitive fields like medicine or law. Think of it like this: you have two MD grads applying for the same position; one studied at state, the other at Johns Hopkins or something along those lines; both got great marks. Who would be in a better position to be hired? If both were equally qualified, I think it's safe to say that the ASSUMPTION there is that the investment of a private education would pay itself off. The reality is that it is now necessary to have the nth edge in order to compete for good careers.

[@fuckinchencho]

You think USA is a mess? Look at argentina... its a Messi 😉😉😉😉😄😄😄😄😄😄😄😄🐒🐒🐒🐒🐒

[@mmmaria]

Congrats, you are better off than most college graduates.

[@petittall557]

Damn WTF lmao! Are they gonna make you pay for it lol? Just asking.

[@Kevin_Roche]

It might seem impossible to find a woman who has no debts, but they're out there (I married one!). Look for a foreign woman who isn't entitled like American women.

[@user-pv7nf3gu8u]

I joined the military, served my time honorably, got out and went to college. I stacked my credits and will be graduating next year with a Master of Science with my G.I. Bill. Yut. (Didn't say this for the "thank you for your service" comments, just mean it is possible to get degrees without debt. It's just not gonna be a fun or easy ride)

[@chrisshoop1975]

This is exactly why the federal government shouldn't be in the business of giving out loans.

[@LeesaLilHop]

Chris shoop why? Because people arent able to comprehend the financial impact of compound interest and thousands of dollars of debt? Everyone who has student loans, signed up to take them out. Federal loans have the best interest rates and certain types of loans, the government will pay the interest while you are still in school. Its not the government thats the problem. Its how expensive colleges are and the ignorant not understanding how loans work and going out of state for worthless degrees.

[@goldengalsclazy]

Perhaps, some of those elected officials should actually raise the minimum wage for a livable wage and cut taxes for the middle class (the very backbone of America) vs. giving tax breaks to wealthy individuals, and corporations.

[@RogueTravel]

@@LeesaLilHop there is a great reason for government to stop offering loans, it is because the loans they offer have driven up the price of college. The university tuition rate increases have followed the increases in student loan debt. It is not sustainable, and it has enslaved a generation. Without government issued loans, the affordability would be more consistent with the times prior to these loans existing.

[@SbjsksmNx]

@@goldengalsclazy raising minimum wage will decrease the number of of employees employers can have.

[@nicoletaylor2880]

@@LeesaLilHop No thats the reason why College jacked up its because of student loans from the government. Are you nuts?

[@adamdawson3274]

Jessie seems to be such a level-headed, kind, mature and nice person. She seems very honest too. She did make bad decisions in the beginning but she was very young, inexperienced and her mother did not know the system either. The system is set up for you to lose and for them to gain profits only. As a young inexperienced young person, it is rare you can beat the system set up to make only profits unscrupulously. Jessie is not at fault due to being young and inexperienced at the time. She radiates good person energy from this video. When she smiles, the whole room lights up. I feel terrible for her situation and she is honest and brave to speak about it on camera and let everyone into her personal world. She is a nice girl and her aunt and mother seem very loving too. I feel bad for Jessie and I wish her all the luck in the world. I hope she becomes debt free soon. She deserves that.

[@khalidcarrillo1132]

I still don't have my degree and I make more money than her. I am 24 and make more money than the majority of my friends. I took a couple years off of school after I finished community college because I could not afford or willing to go into debt for university. I have been slowly paying each class and I will have my bachelor's degree by May :) No debt, just takes time and due diligence. Very few people actually need a university degree for their job. Connections is the number 1 way to get employment, then experience.

[@mph5896]

Nice work!

[@Imhim247]

Khalid Carrillo Great work! Some people used military and go through college like that.

[@III-ip8uc]

Nice work👍 but what’s your degree?

[@mboaz4730]

Khalid Carrillo We can't do that here. The college will only accept you if you do things on their 4 year time table. They change the qualifications that you need for the degree after four years so that even if you take the classes, they won't give the accreditation if you don't do it their way.

[@82Purin]

I've never been offered a salary job. And I bring home 11$/hr. I do not know anybody

[@gabrielhall2847]

I have a business never went to college but I make way more than my wife does that has a masters degree. I just can't see myself going to school for year after year just so I can go work for somebody. Making your own money can always be an unlimited gain depending on how hard you hussle but a job/career will only pay you so much and you gotta wait a year for a raise! f%*k that.

[@lifechoice7889]

Gabriel Hall 💯💯💯💯💯

[@kingamir7487]

Amen👌💯💯👌

[@Nelphoto]

👍👍👍👍👍

[@MrChadwke]

@O I recommend goat herding.

[@jonathanlovesadventure7838]

After my experience in college, I am going to tell all of my children to not go to college and pursue a marketable skill. I do not care if it is makeup or welding. I will tell them that higher education is a scam and you as a person are responsible for your own education. Internships and a pathway to your own business are the way to go these days. People make way more money doing that.

[@mohamedabostate2042]

unless you are going into STEM, business or law dont go to university. Dont major in native studies or history or english or literature or gender studies or criminal justice or arts or any of that trash and complain why you dont have a job. Even getting a job after majoring in any of that, then your degree would not have been the reason you got the job. you would have gotten the job without your degree. in fact your useless degree would have been a barrier because employers dont want to pay high salaries to people with student loans.

[@timmychanofficial]

Mohamed Abostate most business majors, some stem majors, and most law schools suck too.

[@ceazeushepta8612]

''Pick a major that earns money! Engineering! STEM! Duh!'' That's such a shitty, shallow advice. First things first, STEM degrees are much harder to acquire in comparison to others. This leads to the idea that you will need an IQ higher than average to succeed in such field. Not everyone is in the 85th percentile of IQ range, which means that they won't have the capability to be engineers. Second, not every STEM major finds a job automatically only because they have a degree. That is just bullshit. Imagine how many people graduated with a science bachelors and are not working in their intended areas.

[@laprechaun12]

I disagree. My degree is a BA in literature, and the jobs for which I qualify only require a BA degree; but the problem is this one: you must have experience in order to compete for that job. Now, going back to you argument, I believe is the same thing-if you don’t have experience, then would you be a good competitor with you STEM degree?

[@ems3991]

Mohamed Abostate Economics has median salaries around $100K.

[@BlattGaming]

@@ceazeushepta8612 I'm a chemist, and the prospect for us is terrible. Lot of our positions are being outsourced to countries like China and India due to cheap labor and makes it harder for americans to get a decent paying job. It's awful and wish I went to trade school instead.

[@pantsthemancatandbeethoven586]

You spent $90k on a criminal justice degree??? I spent $150k on a doctorate. You got screwed.

[@jonjones2436]

You paid for a doctorate? It sounds like YOU got screwed.

[@jaredlangley6924]

Yeah you can get that degree at a community college.

[@swicheroo1]

LOL. I spent no money to get my undergrad AND my doctorate. Y'all suck hard!

[@cherbug1197]

Wow you are a warm hug.

[@CryptoConscious481]

Correction. She paid 72k for a criminal justice, she got screwed for another 18k in interest, good Ol capitalism profiting off your hopes, dreams, and passions since before you were born. Wouldn’t have it any other way honestly, not being sarcastic, you either become the fool or trapper. Pick a side. Make the money.

[@erica863]

Most of the same people who constantly shit on me for having student loan debt, for having a college degree but still being underemployed and barely above poverty despite working more than 40 hours a week. Are literally the same people who preached to me my entire life that if I didn’t go to college I’d end up working at fast food for my entire life. And that I was “too smart” for trade school. (I tried to go to trade school but this is literally what my dad told me). Thanks for nothing dude.

[@wonderboy4993]

Erica what was your degree in? If you say liberal arts or anything of the sort, it’s your own fault

[@kv2723]

Your experience is typical for people of my generation and younger. Your family genuinely wants you to do better than they did. They are hard working and blue collar. They've been led to believe that college is the only way to get there. Add that to schools, entertainment (we're talking wholesome moral-of-the-story family sitcoms that we grew up watching like The Cosby Show, Who's the Boss?, etc), and everyone you're exposed to drilling the same message into your psyche. "Don't worry, once you have a degree - doesn't matter what it's in - you'll get a good job and paying it off will be no problem. Just go to college."

[@TheNacropolice]

So what did you major in? I majored in CS and I am debt free with a fair bit of cash. College is still a good investment if you invest wisely.

[@azmike3572]

Put in a comma after the word "week". But good luck; you're not alone in your situation.

[@scringe1]

You signed on the loan sheet. Its a contract that you are responsible for. You also make a decision on what major you picked. Major in something that can work in the real world. Stop blaming other people for making poor choices.

[@AleksanderSzadurski]

90,000 for criminal justice degree? better be a doctorate...............

[@ellenlee1]

you wasted $90,000 in scholarships and grants. where did that money come from? it wasn't free! someone donated it.

[@mikebecerramusic]

Aleksander Szadurski it didn't cost that much, but after accrued interest that is where all of the loans she took out add up to

[@klife7775]

Aleksander Szadurski Guessing she over borrowed to have things she did not need.

[@IllinoisTrafficAttorney]

For what it's worth, I admire your courage to speak on here about your experiences. I wish you all the best. I too have regrets about my decisions at that age and wished I had considered community college as I too am about 90k in debt. I was blessed to have some opportunities to make it more affordable but all the same, I know that is rough and sadly, hindsight is very sobering when you are at an age when you can truly appreciate your decisions. It should be illegal to hold many so young to such significant contracts. Best of luck and I hope it works out!

[@susanoakeshauf]

Aleksander Szadurski Even a doctorate in Criminal Justice isn’t worth that.

[@lorddaemonicus9533]

"I did not think about the finances." There you have it, right away ignorance is bliss as it proves the high school graduate thinks not about the future and the consequences of their actions, but just in the moment thinking everything is going to work out with the career choice they make, which is a load of bs.

[@1968dogg]

Dirty Jobs emphasize skilled trades---since most parents/kids think that working with ones hands is "beneath them" the end result is obvious.

[@geoffreydevore9503]

Lanier H too many people today don't want to get their hands dirty, afraid to work!!!

[@realtor411]

if they don't find you handsome, have them find you handy! lol Learn a trade!

[@dynamo3059]

yeah i mean, till everyone goes into that and it becomes impossible to find work there either.

[@paulbroderick8438]

Agree. See my comment at top. America needs an apprenticeship program badly. Oh I forgot, not 'professional' enough.

[@kimjuanjun7124]

I graduated in top 3 back in hs and got into schools that were tough to get in like iit and u of Chicago and after seeing the price I decided to pursue a electrical trade at ibew. My teachers and counselors were surprised due to my grades.

[@becand75]

lol complains about mountains of debt - travels to Panama for booze cruise.

[@annadurkee8607]

exactly my thought!!

[@joshuajordisonofficial]

Haha this is EXACTLY what I was thinking.

[@Chico479]

Andrew Beck you gotta remember to live !

[@burmiester1]

Looks like she has a brand new car too.

[@angryahole]

burmiester1 yup. no man either

[@AmyMoncure]

Whoa! $90,000 for a criminal justice degree and working at vacation sales. That is a hard road to come back from.

[@paulstandaert5709]

0:37 Sums up the entire thing. Some people seem to feel that 4th grade math is no longer applicable in life. So, she ends school with $7x,xxx in debt and then it "balloons" to $90,xxx? How did that happen? at 6:36 she drives away in a much newer and nicer car that I ever had. 8:43 she earned (grossed?) $12,000 more that year than I did when I was 28 years old. 9:03 Renting for $4xx per month.... well, when I was 28, I owned my own home and after taxes, insurance, and such it was over $800 per month. And I earned $12,xxx less that year. 10:50 Backpacking in central america? And you're broke? Sheesh. It is no wonder... 11:50 "Putting loans on forbearance for a couple months doesn't affect me much." Uh, yeah....Did we just learn nothing? 12:10 I guess there's still $$$$ for drinks. Maybe her mom/aunt paid for that? I'm not sure.

[@AdamSmith-gs2dv]

Paul Standaert Her debt ballooned because she deferred the loan which caused her interest rates to skyrocket. Also she could have put that Hyundai or her trips to Panama on the student loan credit card (Yes people actually do this shit)

[@ordinaryguy6869]

Paul: You weren't supposed to notice all of that. lol

[@hawkshillranch2100]

In 1964 I graduated with a teaching degree and $12,500 + in debt (which is equal to $96,000 in today's dollars). My first teaching contract was for $4,500 equal to $35,000 today. It took me eight years to expunge my debt. Was it easy to do? Hardly. With the debt that our college graduates have over their heads today they will undoubtedly have to develop and live as I did, a more frugal life style. Will it be easy to do? Hardly. I am very proud or my educational degrees; however, I am even more proud of that eight years and the life long lessons I learned as a result of my debt.

[@oldtwinsna8347]

Problem today is that housing costs are disproportionately higher than it was back then. Far more so in many areas. Makes it even harder to pay off debt when youre just trying to survive. Only getting worse too, with this country embracing foreign investors who continue to buy up homes in cash to which they dont even live in.

[@ag-bk5wf]

Fungwai Poon i graduated with the same degree in2014 with 5K Profit!!

[@dynamo3059]

haha easy? i haven't been able to finish my bachelors in 8 years. which means i can't get a job. living a frugal lifestyle isn't "easy" or "hard", it's something i do against my will.

[@richardhoyt3746]

There are a couple of common elements to this story. One, something like, "I didn't know what I as doing or I didn't research." Second, "I studied X but then decided I didn't want to work at X." Third, in the midst of borrowing for college I went on a significant trip (Panama in this case)." A solution to all this is counseling and research even if research is forced. How about the school, the entity likely receiving most of the money needs, to be required to prove that the student was at least annually counseled and presented with the research. Elements of that include study of X leads to compensation 5 years after graduation of Y. Compensation of Y means comfortable debt service (principal and interest) of Z. Student would sign documentation of that counseling. If the school can't provide such signed documentation then the school pays the loan balance.

[@os2soliz]

I went to college, my parents and grand parents didn't. I worked 40+ hours every week going to school and I don't have any student loans. It can be done if you work hard and think logically. Don't spend money on things you can't afford.

[@chaoticcreations1184]

A large part of the problem is that we as a society expect children to know what they want to do career wise at far too young an age. Personally I wish I took a few years for myself after high school before going to university. Even then, I wish I did it part time as well.

[@yolandimare1]

Chaotic Creations - Yeah. I'm 38 now and "sort of" know what i wanna do with my life.

[@alexisjankowski3281]

In college, you have two years where everyone takes the same classes. So a normal track would have someone at the age of 20 knowing whether they want that degree program or not. Age 18 is not a child. I was on my own and paying rent and a car payment at the age of 18. I changed majors from pharmacy to accounting because of student loans vs. time left to completion. Life is full of decisions, you don’t defer decisions because “you don’t know”. One never knows. You plan, go for it and hope for the best.

[@jacobmartinez5461]

Chaotic Creations yeah I think they should go out in the real world first then go back and get the degree I don't like how society has made it imperative to college right away at 18 . I think it's dumb I think everyone should take a couple years off decide what they really want to do and then to see if school is worth it or not that way they don't get into this mess

[@josi4749]

I think a part of the problem in USA is that in secondary school you do not really have any focus on what you'd like to have a career in. There should be preparation in secondary school, with a follow up college in the field that you might enjoy. The follow up college is public, only a year or two, and started at 16. Instead of four years of unrelated subjects in secondary school, you are given the opportunity to decide on your future at a younger age. If you end up enjoying what you did in college, you move onto university. A university only focused on the career path, and not a bunch of useless subjects.

[@Snarge22]

I wasn't sure at 18 either so enlisted in the Air Force. By the time those four years rolled by I was ready for college and had the financial backing of the USA to fund my way through it. Additional note; when I then did attend, those fresh out of High School and first time away from mommy kids were very annoying to be around. That is quite immature yet compared to older students.

[@Jessicabobessica]

I have no money! I don’t know why?!?!? ....”when I went backpacking in South America....” Boo boo 😒

[@paillette2010]

This is so frustrating to watch. She wants to swan off to Panama and leave this huge debt. Nor does she take it seriously: she pays minimum and skips payments. Those should be used in energencies only. Then she spends like a Millennial: hair, makeup, clothing and lifestyle perks like lattes and a late model car. Hello. Consumer Reports: why not show her how to cut her budget? Get a second job (or a reliable one), how to effectively cut out this debt. She is sending her mother to an early grave. Why isn't this girl applying for a job where she gets loan forgiveness instead of saddling her mother? Yes I bet she can do more. It's like you show a case where the student learned nothing more than to run away from responsibility. This is infuriating because while we can see she wasn't advised correctly, she bullheadedly swanned into an unaffordable education and cries poor while doing far less than she should to remedy the situation.

[@michaelfan86]

Johanna Zamora we don’t know enough information about her to judge her ma’am.

[@benterry28]

Most professional jobs don’t allow you to get a second job and the contact will terminate if someone finds out or you let it slip. Also she spent at least 3 years in education to get degree in order to get a good job and benefit the country and earn a decent living not to be punished and living on nothing. The system should simply not allow this to happen people shouldn’t be able to take money put like this, that would force the university’s to charge money equal to what’s being gained not just as much as the middle company will allow them to spend. I have a full time job no debt and a clean credit history but I can’t take a 90k loan out 15k is probably the max, so why are they letting kids with no jobs take on this kind of debt.

[@jamesflynn6827]

@@benterry28 she spend 3 to get a degree in a field she doesn't even work in now. But about the Make up for this job she attends its important to look good I mean she she dont works at Wal-Mart.

[@timetraveler5834]

The system rigs it, so you can never pay it back. No one explains any thing when you sign. You want the money, sign here.

[@pacluv]

That’s why you have to take the time to investigate what you are signing up for. You never walk blindly into a dark alley. Do your research beforehand. Much like when I see people on the court shows that buy a used car without getting it checked out by a mechanic before buying it. Then they always say the seller told me there was nothing wrong with it. Duh what do you think he’s going to tell you when he’s trying to sell the piece of junk, that it needs $5000 worth of repairs ( and your buying it for $1500).

[@goldengalsclazy]

It's the responsibility of the signer, though, to actually read the terms and conditions of borrowing money. Some people just blindly sign loans and fail to research how loans work. Loans can be a great benefit, but as with anything, being responsible is the keyword to being a successful signer.

[@soonerjane8966]

watched a financial show from Canada (Til Debt do us part - awesome show). one girl had $100,000 in student loan debt. BUT she had a full-ride scholarship - so why the debt? SHE TRAVELED EVERY CHANCE SHE GOT. She went around the world - on loans. The only thing more stupid is to take out a home equity loan on your home (secured debt) to pay off credit card debt (unsecured debt)

[@taylorbrown9497]

I LOVE THAT SHOW

[@FloridaNative84]

I graduate college in august of this year and terrified as to how I am going to pay all of my loans back..I regret college. I wish I could turn the clocks back.

[@timmychanofficial]

Shannon Lewis whatd u major in lol

[@Swess2908]

+gotchafool Underwater Basketweaving

[@Ms.MD7]

Scary times

[@fieryelf]

I never got higher education. Right out of high school I looked for work. Started a 401k, piled money aside and bought a duplex at 26. Piled some more money aside to start an investment portfolio. While they're trying to dig their way out of their holes I have a net worth that most people that went to university can only dream of.

[@ANGELSURS]

Me too

[@goldengalsclazy]

I can dig it.

[@Humbleears]

I need your advice then! Like seriously.

[@eebbeerrttpp]

fieryelf You may, fool, but you should also know that life happens and that you could suddenly lose everything. Let’s see how your HS degree helps you recover financially.

[@wonderboy4993]

Same here. Got a job with a utility co. Fat 401 k And a pension to boot. No college debt

[@pinklipstickx19]

My cousin went for criminal justice thinking she was gonna be rich when she got out of school little did she know she had no type of expierce working at all she only making $13 a hour my sister make more then her and doesn’t have a college degree and my other co worker makes $11 with that degree .

[@courtneyr4121]

Yeah I got a degree in social work, and they wanted to pay me 13 an hr too.... I moved overseas and am teaching English for 25/hr. Never do I want to go back to public service. Not only is the pay a joke but getting choked, spit at and called names on a daily is Not worth it. I could make 18-20 an hr if I went back to school for my masters but that's another 25k of debt I don't want. Paying off one loan this year, hoping to hit the other 2 before I'm 30

Colleges are COMPLETELY FIDUCIARY IRRESPONSIBLE TO ALL THESE KIDS!!!! The government "backs" these loans so they NEVER LOSE. The schools have so much money in trusts that ARE NOT TAXED!!! THEY ARE WORST THEN LOAN SHARKS!!!

[@LegoSwordViedos]

In anchent rome they realised that 23 year olds and under were not ready for loans. One needs time in the work force to understand money and just how hard it is to earn a buck befor they go and take out a loan hell most have never even heard of intrest by the time they are taking out these student loans.

[@atli126]

you can always improve your situation. Try the Dave Ramsey program it works!

[@pixelzpusher]

It astounds me high school and college teaches nothing about basic finances, interest rates, and overall how money works. $30-$40k a year and you graduate knowing nothing about how money works in our economy is completely insane.

[@kimberlymaiers1859]

She goes backpacking through Europe when she's got loans out under other people's names???! Seriously??

[@directorbeau]

@CarlosChip Morales she's a loser

[@michaelsmith5583]

So many bad choices. private college, booze cruises, trips to Panama, majoring in a degree field to get a job you can get out of HS. What was her plan, to drink and sleep her way to the top. those gold hooped earnings..bad choice. opening a tourism based business in an economy on the doorstep of another recession...what is going on in her head?

[@mr.rothstein461]

Pro tip....get experience in ANY way shape or form. By the time 4 years is up, you will have the experience over college grads and probably be their boss. So exercise contacts first. Unless you are a Doctor or Lawyer, nobody cares if you have a degree. There is not database that verifies this. HR never calls to verify it.....ever. HR does call to check experience.

[@bmwmsport11]

Just goes to show colleges are in for the money. Dare I say a scam? Does it really costs $90k for a degree in criminal justice? Is it WORTH $90k? not exactly a solid "investment" if you ask me.

[@bmwmsport11]

+jessiesuren but had you studied business or a global degree would it REALLY be worth the debt? That's the problem here. Colleges are charging an arm and a leg for knowledge. They're operating as a business itself and a majority of people don't even see it. Degrees are just really good ways to advertise and trick people into thinking they're buying a future. You're not buying a future, you're buying a piece of paper that may or may not have anything to do with your future. Expensive colleges are simply not worth it in the long run. Maybe if you're in for the ride and college life you'll learn a few tricks, other than that there's a 50% chance it was pointless.

[@noviceprepper5397]

If I win a significant lottery I'll remember you. I'd like you to earn a Masters degree in something that interests you and where you don't have to take out a loan to finance it. Thank you for honestly sharing your story. It may help other American families. Best regards.

[@crisyorke1328]

Much appreciated, Jessie!

[@assainscreed1234]

Well said!

[@awilliam1]

Any degree in criminal justice is a scam. No law enforcement jobs actually require a criminal justice degree. They only require a 2 or 4 year degree. So choose a degree in something with high job demand, and you can still be a cop if you end up not liking that job you get with that degree.

[@Matthew-tv8fn]

She drives a brand new Hyundai and she buys the most expensive candles??

[@tikimiller7966]

Matthew ahaha

[@SOLDOZER]

Maybe the got the candle at TJ Maxx for $1.00??

[@4strength4stamleatherbeltl78]

Has a mac, too. Honestly, she deserves it.

[@beetlebayley5237]

One day she can say to her son, Randall, Randal, your father was a candle....

[@philiplicarter]

0 college debt, 12 months of living expenses saved, and I drive a 14 year old nissan that has rust and dents. Some people are just terrible with money.

[@NY-MP911]

I joined the Military and so did my friend. I joined for economic and patriotic reasons, he joined for college money. My friend was killed in Baghdad, so he didn't get to use his 911 GI Bill for education. I retired from the Army in 2014 and have been going to university full time. I had a professor who was angry that my school was paid for. This professor felt that her student loans should be paid for. She argued with me and she was eventually fired for her behavior.

[@stephenshuman1]

If the government could just quit subsidizing student loans, schools would have no incentives to raise tuition costs and it wouldn't cost nearly what it does right now to pay for education.

[@oldtwinsna8347]

Its the modern day gravy train. Huge lobbyists invovled. Seniors dont give a shit since its not affecting them, and they already sponged off the system with their ssa benefits far exceeding their contributions, plus defined benefit plans that are all but extinct today. Younger generation needed to be slaves, never having home ownership since same system inviting the influx of offshore investors to gulp up homes they dont even live in.

[@robertnicolas8887]

How to become poor 101

[@johnboy3035]

This class with kill there plan..lol

[@grandmastergyorogyoro532]

😂😂😂

[@cafeta]

8:34 don't use your expensive college education, lol

[@mathisnotforthefaintofheart]

Just you know, that nice woman 0:09 paid off her loans. She was on Ramsey. Stop nailing her...Second: With the current job market: Pick up a job with benefits and go to college part time. Say NO to student debt, just NO. You get your degree later in life, so what? That's how I did it. Work and go to school 2 days a week. For a freaking decade. Graduated debt free! Best time of my life...

[@chroniczebe07]

I'm sick of this pity party! This is so sad and depressing! You have a degree in Criminal Justice. You can look for a whole host of local, state and federal jobs that pay great money and have great benefits that don't require you to put your life on the line. Stop playing the victim!. Look for solutions and grow as a person. It sounds like this person never had a plan, just a vision board.

[@johnkaiysen2772]

Actually, that's not the worst idea. I don't know if she mentioned it in this video, but in other videos she does mention wanting to go into federal law reinforcement I went through OTS after getting my bachelors, and my veteran status has helped me with getting jobs and even getting accepted and paying for graduate school. However, if she is going to do it, she needs to process fas before she gets too old.

[@amanb8698]

John Kaiysen also you have to have a 3.0 for that i had a 2.8 so im going enlisted reserves

[@amanb8698]

John Kaiysen and im 26 gonna be 27 lol

[@amanb8698]

John Kaiysen my friend flys jets and is my age ill be E3 lol oh well

[@bighands69]

In years gone by even if she graduated with criminal justice she would have more than likely got a job in a police department or in a private company. She would have been hired on the basis of having a college degree. It would not have been big pay but would have been a starting point in the world. About 30 million US jobs have been shipped over seas such as coal, auto manufacturing and electronics. People cannot expect that level of outsourcing and there not to be problems. People are simply just not aware.

[@CrisVanGon1]

"she's doing WHAT in 6 months." Dave Ramsey voice

[@justinbuice]

left handed puppetry

[@jacksmith659]

I went to a state school. I thought it was a bad idea, but after watching this, I am think was the best thing that I did.

[@craiglividini8484]

Avoid student loans like the plague. They are predatory and carry high interest rates. Figure out what you want to do and how your education will get you there. If you study nursing or banking or engineering you will be better off then if you major in gender studies or anthropology. Consider trade school, community college, working as you attend school and getting every grant and scholarship you can. My college education cost 40k for 4 years at a private school 20 years ago. The same school would run you 200k today. That is crazy.

[@jason1hut]

You are living the american dream.

[@timcolumbus6506]

It's no coincidence that the same year the fed came into being was also the same year that federal income tax came along with it.

[@bighands69]

The American dream was the 1950s and 60s. It was a period when people worked in a job and with that salary they could afford a Family, House, Car. Luxuries and still save money. Something changed yet most people seem not to understand what happened. What happened is that taxes when up and government departments just sprang up everywhere. EPA and department of Energy are such departments that really offer benefit nothing.

[@bighands69]

The American dream was the 1950s and 60s. It was a period when people worked in a job and with that salary they could afford a Family, House, Car. Luxuries and still save money. Something changed yet most people seem not to understand what happened. What happened is that taxes when up and government departments just sprang up everywhere. EPA and department of Energy are such departments that really offer benefit nothing.

[@assdkasdjfidsajfdsi3]

bighands69 Taxes were higher in the 1950s.

[@paulawhite2546]

bighands69 Yeah, ask Flint Michigan about how important EPA is.

[@cmscms123456]

My story, I quit high school after the 11th grade, got a GED, joined the US Air Force. After the Air Force, I worked various jobs, ended up as a warehouseman, forklift driver, stockroom clerk ($9 per hour). I went to Community College (Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa CA), 4 nights a week, 6pm to 10 pm. year round, for 3 years. I got my AA-AS degree in Electro/Mechanical Design Drafting, and CAD. Within 2 years of finishing my 2 year degree, I was making $22 per hour. MORE THAN DOUBLED my pay from a Community College degree... Cost per semester = $150 to $250 tuition, books fees.. EVERYTHING... I even got my employer to pay all of those fees... ZEROOOOO DEBT !!! I worked that career for over 30 years, I have taken enhancement courses, over that time, all paid for by employers. My pay is over $34. per hour now. ALL ON A "TWO YEAR" COMMUNITY COLLEGE DEGREE... Neither one of my parents had more than a high school diploma. I was the first in my family of 5 kids, to get any kind of college degree. So, "NOT KNOWING" is not an excuse. “Common sense is more rare than genius.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson

[@bobp1311]

I got my AS degree and almost got my BA degree, but it was costing me way too much. I'm a graphic web designer and I make $50k+ doing what I love. The schools didn't teach me anything. I learned everything on the job.

[@pranksterguy1]

I give her credit. She isn't like whoas me like so many student debtors on youtube! I wish her all the best!

[@proad4516]

Woe. The word is woe.

[@pranksterguy1]

You're SO smart Proad!!!

[@njvalueinvestor]

This young lady shows honesty & character. Refreshing to see her accept the consequences of her actions. She could have started cc, gone to a state school, or served earning the GI Bill. The video was very well done.

[@joseluiscano9964]

Thanks for sharing your story. I will share it with some of my friends thinking about going to college. It is a pretty bad situation. I help my ex-wife pay for her student loans but to do that we had to tighten the belt and make a very well planned budget. No luxuries, not restaurant dinners, no fancy coffee, no useless candles, very very frugal life. They were paid off in 4 years.... you cannot pay the minimum you will never finish. You need to set the eyes in the target and do not deviate from it.... no distractions. Good luck in your journey.

[@kensai69]

What you need is to work a second job so that you get pay off your load as quickly as possible. It takes quite a bit of courage to come out and tell the world your problems and I admire that. I hope this will provide the right guidance to people who are about to make similar mistakes.See if your parents will let you move back in with them to save that 400 dollars rent (and put it into load repayments). And if you would like to get a job in line with your degree, the time is now (or 2 years ago). The further you are away from your graduate date, the less probable it is for you to get hired (w/o experience) into that field.Best of luck.

[@joemarks8417]

The problem is that CHILDREN decide to go to college because that’s what everyone does. And they go to college with the mindset of, creating a impact, or making a difference. Not with any thought about what will TRULY help them in the future. 18-19 year olds aren’t capable, for the most part, of creating a long term plan, or knowing exactly what they want. There is no sense in going to college until you know what you want in your life. Not to mention the scam of making students pay for courses they don’t need, just to fill a curriculum, and jack up prices. Everyone talks about the college system in the Nordic countries, but they don’t go to college for 4 years or more. 3 years is usually the max, and it’s treated more like a trade school instead of needless, ridiculous classes

[@BrockJamesStory]

I wouldn't say 18 and 19 year olds are not capable I would day people who are pampered and do t grow up are not capable I'm 20 and I've had my long term plan sense I was 19 I got a mortgage for a home and I save a lot I buy silver to hedge against inflation etc.

[@mituljariwala9821]

you have a criminal justice degree but your working for sundance. WTF??????

[@crisyorke1328]

The degree certificate has all latin on it. I don't even understand any words except Jessie Ann Suren Lol

[@GUITARTIME2024]

Your hat annoys me. Not sure how to say that in Latin.

[@spf_500]

exactly. I have a biology degree and work in quality assurance :(

[@colorsofavon934]

Sorry to hear about your situation. I have $35K in student loans. I recommend Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University. I have less stress and now have a plan that is lowering my debt and has changed the way I plan for the future for myself and my family. Believe me it is LIFE changing. Best wishes.

[@gabrielaraujo6286]

are you still going thru this jessie? have you heard of the obama loan forgiveness plan? I heard that it can help you

[@EclipseMints08]

Jesus. You could have went to Penn State and got the same degree with 70% less debt. Heck, you could have probably gotten the entire education paid off with scholarships. Why would you or your family even sign up for a school who's tuition was 41k a year? This type is situation is all too common where people do not think of their future and just go because they would rather go for prestige. Well, enjoy your prestige because all you got was 15 to 20 years of debt. I hate these stories because these stories could easily be avoided if they just did their own research and knew where they were when it comes to income. These people just blame the government when the ones that they should blame is themselves.

[@SunShyneRewind]

EclipseMints08 she isn't blaming anyone. Several times throughout the video she mentioned how she wished she made different decisions (i.e community college) Stories like these help others from making the same mistake.

[@alcd6333]

According to her Twitter site, Jessie is now debt free. She is one of the lucky ones - and few.

[@stixs2005]

Dave Ramsey is screaming right now....

[@antonioarancivia1857]

Johnny 'N' Stuff Some close friends of Dave say that his wife still talks about Dave sleep talking about” dang student loans” & repeating “stupid stupid stupid” phrases in his sleep late @ night.

[@garyhost1830]

Yes yes yes took the words right out of my mouth

[@luvdady]

well 41 seconds in theres the problem.....

[@peternorthrup6274]

The best thing the government ever did was to make sure that nobody can discharge student loans in bankruptcy. I never went to college. I could never afford to. Never ever cosign a loan for anyone.

[@BlueCollar850]

There's several problems with college in this country. First, college is too expensive. Colleges price gauge these kids who take out these loans because they're so easily available. Second, how does someone at 18 in college truly know what they want to do with their life? Or even at 22 years old? At these ages, you're just finding out about yourself. How many people have degrees for jobs they don't like because they are not a good fit for that job? I don't see any shame in starting college later on in life. In your mid to late 20's you have a better idea of the world and how it works and what your skills and weaknesses are as a person. As for me, I went to college a couple times in my early 20's but I wasn't good at it. I've always been a laborer. During my younger years instead of sitting in a classroom and partying on weekends I labored in the rain and cold, heat and sun. Now at 30 my endurance finally paid off because I'm working for my dream company with no debt or a degree.