Seeking private lenders for the first time! Should I be scared?

<p>Hi all,</p>

<p>I'm about to be a second semester junior at private university. So far, I've been lucky. In the past, I haven't had to take out any loans (besides those from the government) thanks to the advantages of attending a community college first and winning some generous grants and scholarships.</p>

<p>Now, half way through my junior year, I'm in a position where these grants and scholarships have run out and I'm going to need to find a way to cover a gap in my need (more specifically, less than $4k). The amount was higher. Fortunately, I submitted a successful appeal to my financial aid office and was able to close the gap significantly.</p>

<p>So, I've met with my guy at school who recommended two different avenues (first, a credit union and second, a private lender like Citi or Wells Fargo). If we do decide to go the direction of a private lender, does anyone have any recommendations? If you have loans like this, is there anything you wish you'd have known ahead of time? Any suggestions not specific to any questions I've asked here?</p>

<p>Many thanks!</p>