America's Money: In their own words

Student, 22, Gainesville, Ga.

I am a student finishing my undergraduate degree. I don't regret my degree; it's providing me offers for jobs and top graduate schools. I only regret that my out-of-state parents and generous financial aid could not help much, or that the housing and rising gas prices make moving or commuting too expensive.

I couldn't afford medical coverage for a while and now have overwhelming medical debt in addition to tuition and living costs. It's bad and probably will be for some time.

I get excited the rare times I can pay for something and have learned to not look at my credit score. Hopefully, I will not have to pass up my acceptance to graduate school (assuming I can even afford the move).

Oddly, times like these grow my faith and teach me how to survive and appreciate things like food, friends and $5 dollar gas.

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