I'd share my experiences with something we've all probably tangled with student loans. Have to admit, coming out of school and being slapped with that first bill was like getting hosed down with bucket of ice water. It's not just the shock of the amount, but that realization you're on the hook for this for years to come. It was seriously humbling! But let's take step back haha. When was choosing colleges, I'm sure like many of you, cost was major factor. So when Georgia Tech gave me an acceptance letter (Go Yellow Jackets! It seemed like no-brainer. Top-tier education at an in-state tuition rate? Yes please! But even with HOPE scholarship in hand, those loans started piling up pretty quickly. Fast forward four years and there was: cap and gown off, degree on the wall, and job at an Atlanta tech firm. And my grace period ticking away like it's got somewhere better to be. So what did do?