<p>It’s not essential to do much of anything. It’s just easier, the less debt one has. It also depends on what the student’s job prospects are and if the family can help with transitional expenses and if things don’t work out right away. The more debt there is, the more issues can arise. I have a friend who has had horrible financial stresses due to cosigning large loans for her daughter who has not been able to find gainful employment. The family is also having financial issues outside of school loans, so they are bombarded on all sides. It would have been a lot more relief with out the student loans on the agenda.</p>