Students are taking on 50 percent more debt than they did in the 1990s, according to USA Today. At the time the debt is accumulating, students don’t notice it much. But once out of school, the debt becomes a huge burden. It’s affecting their ability to buy homes, get married and save for retirement. Clark encourages people to follow their dreams and go back to school if that’s what will help them get there. But student loan rates are going up because of a new federal mandate. So, if you are in school or thinking of going back to school, consider scaling back on the extras many students have nowadays. Living in a great place and living it up on the party scene may have to take a back seat. Spending the first two years of college at a community college is another option. They are the same classes and you cut your college costs in half by doing so. Transfer to a better school your third year and work while you’re there. There are ways to reduce the burden. Check out the changes to the student loan system.