<p>Jade,</p>
<p>When I first graduated from High School, I had a decision to make. My parents would not pay for my college education and I could not afford the loans on my own. Our EFC was considerally lower than yours but it might as well have been 29k because it was just as out of reach. Since I was put into this horrible situation because my parents wouldn’t help, I was forced to make a decision: Take on 20k in loans each year or wait to start college. 20k in loans was out of the question…so I waited ( a little too long, maybe). Now at 33, I am 3/4 of the way through my Bachelor’s degree and can more easily fund my own education. Waiting actually benefited me tremendously. Having began my career, I was able to locate an employer who pays 100% of my tuition for me…all I have to cover are my books and misc expenses (paper, pens, pencils, etc). No loans, no worries. When I am done, as long as I am still with my current employer, I will start on my Master’s degree…and they will pay 100% of that tuition bill as well. </p>
<p>Instead of being angry about your situation, and feeling entitled to a free education, you need to prepare yourself for the situation at hand. 80k in loans is stupid, as others have already stated. Consider waiting a couple of years and enter the job market instead. Build yourself some capital, look at employers who offer education benefits, pick up a few courses at the local Community College, and count your blessings that you are now in the United States, where life isn’t fair but freedom enables you the ability to choose your own destiny.</p>