Any fresh out-of-college designers here? I've been applying to jobs and haven't had any luck yet, but what worries me more is how these super low starting salaries will affect student loan debt payments! I feel like repaying my debt is going to be close to impossible, especially considering I have unsubsidized loans that have accrued interest during my time in college. How much are you making in your first few years and how are allocating expenses?

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I was in the same boat just a few years ago. As a third-year interior designer, I started with a salary of around $45,000, which was nothing, when you factor in student loans and living expenses. I’ve had to be really strategic with my budget, and cutting back on almost any non-essentials to make loan payments manageable. I also looked into IDR plans which really helped ease the burden while I was still building my career. Focusing on gaining experience and networking .. that's truly what helped me find opportunities for growth and salary increases.

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Not a designer, but was met with some really low salaries fresh out of college. I felt like I had realistic expectations, even those were apparently far off. Bad timing kind of plays a role too. Minimum payments to loans and always look at the options to help at, income driven, save plan, falling behind only means more in the long run.

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Additional Posts in Student Loans

Does having student loans impact your ability to get a mortgage?

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SOFI or who else?

Damn LIBOR rate up again...

If you could go back in time what would you tell yourself before taking out student loans?

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Curious to know how much your student loans were when you graduated from your program, how much you’ve paid off so far, and your age. If you have any varying factors too, like kids, income range, etc. Just trying to see if I’m on track or slacking in life. I am 34 yo, i graduated with 95k in student loans, i currently have 85k left and i make 85k in come. I’m also a single mom with two kids. Just praying for 100% student loans forgiveness. Wishful thinking???

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Not mad that student loans being paused means I can use the money for Christmas. Are you still making payments during the pause? Or are you saving the money for something else. My christmas present to myself is a spa day!

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I have a 25K loan from my MBA. I paid off 100k whole, after graduation. 3 years ago, I moved my loan from federal to private ( SOFI) account. I recently lost my job. I have applied for unemployment, as the severance that I received will only cover for 2 months. Together my husband and I used to make less than 250k after tax. Now, with a loss of pay , we are going to make less. Do you think I will be eligible for Loan forgiveness?

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If you didn't have to pay off any more of your student loans what would you use the money for instead? I'm stuck between something impractical like a trip somewhere or something I need like a new car lol

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