How much debt will you be in?

I agree that 100k in debt is a lot, but it's a reality for a number of people in OT. I don't, however, think you should pass on OT school because of debt load. Yes, in-state school would be cheaper, however, if you are paying for all your expenses yourself (which is absolutely the norm), school is expensive regardless. I am deciding between an in-state school and a private school and with living expenses, books, fees, etc. the whole thing is expensive no matter where I go. However, that is grad school. I am super lucky that I have no undergrad debt, but I realized that when making the decision to go to OT school, debt was an inevitability. I think of it like this: when I graduated college at 22 I moved to DC (third most expensive city in the U.S.) and lived in the city as an Americorps member for less than $1,000 a month. Besides my cell phone bill, I lived without the help of my parents. I had roommates, I bought cheap food, I drank cheap beer at happy hour, and I did a ton of free stuff on the weekend. I really learned how to be independent and how to make a dollar last. So now that I face the possibility of a lot of debt, and high monthly payments, I at least know that I will still be able to live more comfortably than I did back then. Working as an OT is worth it to me, so I am willing to take out the loans. I find it intimidating for sure when I hear about people who don't have to pay for their school, or who will live at home during grad school, because I know that I will be taking care of all those things through loans. However, know that that is entirely the norm in most places. A friend of mine has over 100k in student loans (from OT) and makes do. She doesn't spend frivolously, but is able to pay rent, owns a car, can go on moderately priced vacations, etc. She will pay them off in 10 years and not worry about them anymore. I am not advocating taking on a ton of debt, but I also don't think OT should be relegated to those who are fortunate enough to go to "cheap" in-state schools, live with their parents, etc. Know that lots of people are facing similar challenges to you, (including me!), and still feel confidently that it will be the right decision in the end.

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How much debt will you be in?