Since David G. opened the discussion about colleges, I just want to note my observations. When I was in college many years ago, student loans were pretty new. I lived within my meager means so I would not be in debt when I graduated. Other kids kept telling me to get students loans so I wouldn't have to live sparingly. However, I noticed that the majority of the student loan money that came into their hands was spent on partying!
I wondered if the government was encouraging drinking and partying by encouraging student loans?
Very few college kids know how to handle money. One girl's parents figured out the cost of college for a year and deposited that much money in her student account; she spent all the money in the first quarter! Those who somehow were able to graduate could get credit to buy a brand new car even though they owed thousands to the student loan program. All that debt would seem to me like carrying an anvil around their neck.
Between the large increases in tuition and the tightening of the student loan program in light of the current job market, 4-year degrees may not be worth the effort and money - especially for the "basket weaving" courses.
I wondered if the government was encouraging drinking and partying by encouraging student loans?
Very few college kids know how to handle money. One girl's parents figured out the cost of college for a year and deposited that much money in her student account; she spent all the money in the first quarter! Those who somehow were able to graduate could get credit to buy a brand new car even though they owed thousands to the student loan program. All that debt would seem to me like carrying an anvil around their neck.
Between the large increases in tuition and the tightening of the student loan program in light of the current job market, 4-year degrees may not be worth the effort and money - especially for the "basket weaving" courses.