Be smart about college borrowing

It was refreshing to read Indiana University President Michael McRobbie’s commentary about IU’s programs for reducing tuition debt (“While candidates posture, Midwestern universities take action on student debt,” Jan. 27). Career counselors, financial aid counselors, peer coaching, financial literacy programs and a variety of student success programs all work together to make students and parents aware and purposeful in planning to pay for college.

Borrowing money for college should involve a partnership with college staff at all levels and a constant awareness of: What will be my payments, what can I do with this major, what are my options, how can I present myself in the best way, and do I have the proper level writing skills and tech skills for the current market? All make for an educated and more purposeful college debt owner.

To recent graduates who are underemployed, I advise you to go to your college career office, learn how to market yourself and know what is available out there to maximize your skills. A recent college graduate today should look to earn at least $45,000 — and $70,000-plus for more technical fields. The $15 minimum wage (at full time) is equivalent to a $31,200 annual salary, and a savvy college grad should be able to find a job for more than that and turn down job offers that are lower. If the job pays minimum, you are not looking in the right place; redirect your search. The job market is good, and a smart grad should have the tools to maximize his or her opportunities and pay off that debt in a reasonable length of time while earning a decent salary.

I hope current students take an interest in the various success programs offered at their colleges. Meandering through the four years without a purpose will not bode well and there are a multitude of staff members ready to help launch you to a successful future, so use them; it’s part of your tuition.

— Grace Whiting, River Forest