February 8 2204- The prevailing belief that hard work and education lead to good-paying jobs often clashes with the reality of accumulating student debt that can persist for a significant portion of one’s life. Jasmin Ford, a nurse in Chicago, found herself in this predicament, working two jobs to cope with a substantial debt after earning her bachelor’s degree in 2011 and subsequently obtaining her nursing degree. Despite being the first in her family to graduate college, Ford faced financial challenges, relying on student loans to cover necessities like tuition, food, and rent. The burden of the debt seemed insurmountable, leading Ford to question when she could repay it, highlighting the complex financial struggles many face even after investing in education.