Money · Debt
gpt-4o-mini · Female · Anxiety, Sleep Disorder
I haven't graduated yet and I'm already stressed about my student loans. I'm still in school and I'll look at what I've borrowed and feel panic. Everyone tells it's good debt and it'll be worth it but I don't even have a job yet so.. I was young when I signed up for it and my parents told me it's good and worth it. I also thought it would pay off but some days I don't know if I made the right decision.
I completely understand how you're feeling. It's really common to feel overwhelmed by the thought of student loans, especially before you've even graduated and started working. The pressure of making such a big financial decision at a young age is daunting, and it's okay to have moments of doubt. Remember, it's also about the investment you're making in your future and your career. It's normal to feel uncertain about the future, but try to focus on your goals and the steps you're taking to achieve them. Have you been able to talk to a financial advisor or a career counselor at your school? They might be able to offer some guidance and help ease some of your worries.
No I haven't talked to anyone officially about it. My friends got their tuition paid by their parents so. Well, I guess I just feel like I'm supposed to be grateful that I even got to go to school even with debt. I don't know how repayment works yet and if I will be able to.
It's completely okay to feel this way, and you're not alone in these concerns. It's a big step, managing and understanding the repayment of student loans, especially when you're trying to figure it out on your own. You should definitely give yourself credit for pursuing your education and investing in your future, even if it comes with debt. Since you haven't had a chance to talk to anyone officially about it yet, reaching out to your school's financial aid office could be a really good step. They can offer detailed information about your loan terms, repayment options, and any relief programs you might be eligible for. Understanding these details can significantly reduce your anxiety about the process. Also, many people find themselves in a similar situation upon graduating, and there are a variety of repayment plans designed to accommodate different income levels, including income-driven repayment plans that might be easier to manage when you're just starting out. Remember, it's perfectly valid to seek support and information to help navigate this. You're taking responsibility for your future, and part of that includes learning how to manage these aspects of adult life. You're doing just fine.
financial aid doesn't do anything, they just ask you to apply for fafsa which I did and look for scholarships which never gets anywhere. What scares me most is not knowing what my life is going to look like after. Like what if I graduate and can't find a job in my field and I'm stuck with this debt and nothing to show. The worst things is, I don't like my field right now.
It sounds like you're dealing with a lot of uncertainty and worry right now, and it's completely understandable to feel scared about the future, especially when things aren't going as you hoped or planned. Feeling disconnected from your field of study adds another layer of stress to the mix, which must be really challenging. The fear of not finding a job in your field after graduation is a common one, but there are always steps you can take to improve your situation. If you're feeling unsure about your current field, it might be worthwhile to explore other interests you have or consider what aspects of your studies you do enjoy. Sometimes, the skills and knowledge we acquire can be applied in ways we didn't initially anticipate, opening doors to opportunities we hadn't considered. Remember, your path doesn't have to be linear. Many people find fulfilling careers that are not directly related to their degree. It's also okay to change directions if you realize something else might make you happier or suit you better. This period could be an opportunity for self-discovery and exploring different options. Have you considered speaking with a career counselor? They can offer insights into different career paths, help you discover your strengths and interests, and provide support in job searching and networking strategies. Additionally, networking with professionals in areas you're curious about can provide valuable insights and open up new opportunities. It's tough to navigate these feelings and uncertainties, but you're not alone in this. Many have been in your shoes and found their way through. It's okay to ask for help, explore your options, and take time to figure out what's right for you. Your future has many possibilities, and this moment of uncertainty doesn't define what you're capable of achieving.
Didn't even know career counselors exists. It sounds like a good idea to talk to them but would they help me if they know i don't like my field? I feel like everyone around me expects me to be excited about graduating and I'm not. I'm scared and dreading it.
Absolutely, career counselors are there to help students and graduates with a wide range of concerns, including feelings of uncertainty or dissatisfaction with their field of study. They're trained to offer guidance and support regardless of where you're at in your educational or career journey. In fact, expressing your doubts and concerns about your field is an important step in finding a path that feels right for you, and a career counselor can play a crucial role in that process. Career counselors can help you explore your interests, skills, and values to see how they might align with various career paths, even ones you might not have considered yet. They can also provide resources for gaining new skills or pivoting to a different field if that's what you decide to do. It's completely natural to feel scared and not excited about graduating, especially when you're facing uncertainty about your future. But remember, your feelings are valid, and it's okay to express them. You're not alone in feeling this way, and reaching out for support is a brave step forward. Don't worry about what you think others expect you to feel. This is your journey, and it's important to acknowledge your feelings and work through them at your own pace. A career counselor can help you navigate these challenges and support you in making decisions that are right for you.
Maybe I need to just actually go talk to someone. I've been thinking about this and it's exhausting because it stresses me out so I put it away but it comes back. I don't have everything figured out and trust that life will happen and I will be able to handle it.
It sounds like you're really self-aware, and reaching out to talk to someone could be a very positive step. It's perfectly normal to feel exhausted by these thoughts and worries; they can be a heavy load to carry, especially on your own. Seeking support can help lighten that burden. It's okay not to have everything figured out. Life is a journey, and part of it is learning, growing, and adapting as we go. Trusting in your ability to handle what comes your way is a strong foundation to build on. Remember, it's about taking one step at a time. You don't need to have all the answers right now. Talking to a professional, like a career counselor, can provide you with tools, resources, and perspectives that might not be apparent from where you're standing. They can help you navigate your current feelings and assist in planning practical steps towards a future that feels more aligned with who you are and what you want. You're taking a brave step by acknowledging these feelings and considering reaching out for help. Remember, it's a sign of strength to ask for support when you need it. Life will indeed happen, and with the right tools and support, you'll be able to face it with confidence.