Vataro, Eater of Souls wrote:
Unfortunately, I don't really have any extra money. I have a couple school jobs that get me enough to live on (food on weekends, etc.), but not really enough to save up at this point. I'm so busy most of the time that I couldn't work outside of school if I wanted to. This summer I may be able to save some up if I do research at the school ($3000 for 10 weeks), but while I'm actually taking classes I find myself lacking extra cash flow. Are there steps I can take to make it easier once I graduate? I don't see myself being able to pay off much before then
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I wouldn't worry about it too much. Like I said, if you have unsubsidized loans, I'd recommend paying the interest (which is only a little each month) while you're in school so that you don't end up having it capitalize and paying interest on interest. Also: people have a tendency to apply for scholarships their first year, then forget about it throughout the rest of college. Keep applying for scholarships, keep doing essay competitions etc.
You could look into a loan forgiveness program when you're done...I've had friends do Americorp, for example.
Nexa