Yes, it’s true. I fell for the gimmicks and ended up with a few credit cards with all types of debt as well as a student loan. The majority of my debt is school related (books) or auto-repair related (tires, batteries, brakes, misc.). I have been kind of doing the whole college thing by figuring it out myself and wasn’t aware/no one told me student loans were a better choice than credit (my fault) until it was too late.

I’ve graduated from a 4 year institution, one more year of taking classes, then will be headed to California in Summer 2010 to get a house/apt/condo with a friend and get my teacher credentials at CSU San Marcos so I can teach elementary school.

A: How can I REALLY start paying off this debt (aside from starting with paying for everything in cash/with debit like I’ve been doing)? I am scared I will never be able to pay it all off. What are my other options beside debt consolidation which I’ve read can really mess up your credit?
B: With this much debt, what is the likelihood that my friend (has little to no debt) and myself will be able to get a place relatively affordable while we are both going to school (especially if either of our parents can/need to cosign)? We want to live between Oceanside and San Marcos in North San Diego County if that is helpful or possible.
C: Any other financial advice given my situation?

And please, avoid cutting remarks about my “naive collegiate/financial stupidity”. I’m well aware of the consequences for my choices and you should keep in mind I have had little to no help in making these decisions because neither of my parents went to college/are financially savvy. I do feel foolish, and am simply asking for help/advice.

Anything would be greatly appreciated.

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