I took a loan out to get my BA. Went to night school, worked during the day, had to care for my mother, etc. I paid it off like my other debts over time. This generation thinks everything should be handed to them on a golden platter thanks to the politicians using them as a political pond. The schools today do not teach kids about responsibility and finances. My grandchild in the 90’s had all of his credits in high school to graduated and free time. Talked him into taking a high school accounting course. He was amazed at what taxes can be taken out of a paycheck, etc. It was an eye opener for him.
Summer 1972... (I graduated in 1973) ... I went to class 8am till 4pm. I worked 4pm till midnight. I worked 10 hours on Saturdays, and 10 hours every other Sunday. My then fiance had hernia surgery in OKC so on my Sundays off I drove an hour to see him. I had a painting class and a Humanities class. Painting required 36 paintings that summer. Humanities required reading 5 books.
Summer 1969 I worked shiftwork, Liberty Glass, No AC. 110F inside the glass plant. Fans blowing hot air on us, free salt pills at fountain.
Summer 1970 I worked at Liberty Glass. They had a lot of temporary lay offs. While laid off I worked at JC Penneys in the next town. My sister’s baby sitter didn’t show up so instead of sleeping by day after working all night, I baby sat for nephew. Ended up in hospital, total exhaustion. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome followed for about ten years.
Summer 1971 I worked at Liberty Glass. They still had lay offs but I didn’t try to work 24 hours a day that summer.
Summer 1972 Glenn’s Snack bar 8 hours a day, 10 hours on Saturdays and alternate Sundays. Classes 8 hours a day.
We lived on fish sticks and hot dogs. Our friends got government commodities and they shared cheese, black beans, corn meal... with us.
But we had a GREAT TIME! Still married. First date January 29 1971 First child June 1981.