Quote:
Originally Posted by onetwo_threefour
I worked full time through both my degrees, but a good chunk of that was in a restaurant kitchen job with no tip out and I did not have the option of living at home or getting any money from family at all. My student loans covered my books, materials and tuition, but really didn't cover much of food, rent, transit passes, and associated costs of school. I didn't live large, no travelling, limited partying, no big ticket purchases other than computers and a modest engagement ring for my wife. I was certainly one of the many 'under-employed' which has a lot to do with my large debt load.
Anyway, I don't want to derail, just wanted to mention address the question.
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Similar scenario for me. I bartended throughout school and applied for every scholarship and grant I could find. I paid for all of my expenses and didn't receive help from my parents, as they couldn't afford it. I didn't drink at all during school, never traveled and picked up a second job in the summer to help make things easier on me during the semester. I did manage to graduate debt free, but articling with a CA firm actually gave me debt since it was a pay cut from working in restaurants.
I will not be having children of my own, but my brother has two kids, plus his wife has one from a previous relationship. I will be paying full tuition and books for my nephew and niece if they want to go to school, as long as they keep their grades at a high level. I think it's a great idea for university kids to work in a restaurant while going through school, as it gives you time management and people skills, as well as it shows you how crappy things can be if you don't have a plan. I loved bartending, but there is no way I wanted to be a 40-60 year old bartender.