My dream was to work in advertising in New York City. So I went to school in New York and I majored in marketing. I figured I would be able to find a job I wanted once I graduated. To pay for school, I started taking out the federal loans I was eligible for and used private loans to cover the additional cost.
I got an entry-level job when I graduated, but my salary only covered my rent and my interest payments on my student loans. New York City is an expensive place to live, so I was always having to choose between paying off my debt or paying for living expenses. Because of this, every month I fell farther and farther behind.
Now, I've quit my job in New York and I moved back to the Midwest to live with family. I got a job at a hotel to pay bills, including my high monthly student loan payments. I don't like that I have a job that doesn't use my degree, but for now, it's a necessity while I get things under control.
If I would have planned ahead better, I would have been able to find ways to help pay for school instead of strictly relying on student loans. Then I wouldn't be in this position. I wouldn't have to put my dream on hold.