I don't see where anyone called you names, the line you quote didn't call you anything, though I can see how it may have touched a nerve.

I think people were trying to explain how things are now, since you specifically said you did not know!

As for loans..."student loans" are federally guaranteed. While this makes it very difficult to "get rid of them" (like in bankruptcy), it also provides things like guaranteed low interest rates, differment of payment until 6 months after leaving college, other sorts of differment and forbearance later, and most importantly, the possibility of even attaining a loan when one has no or very poor credit. There are also many different Federal repayment programs...for example, once I have my degree, if I work in a "shortage area" (medical), then the Feds will "forgive" $20,000 a year, up to 4 years, while i am being paid as well. There is no program like this for private loans. I was offered a regular, private loan...for a whole $1000, with 19% interest and payments to begin in one month. That would not have even covered the cost of books. And payments beginning right away?!? If I could have begun the payments, I would not have needed the loan!

For the record...my father went to college and had a wife and two kids at home, while working two jobs, one full-time and one part-time. Yes, he was able to do this, and I watched him do it. At least I did when I actually saw him. This was not the only reason, but was a huge factor in why he and I had no relationship until I was well into my 30's. Fortunately we have a decent relationship now, and he understands how hard I am working to get an education and move ahead in this world...while obtaining student loans (along with scholarships and grants) to do so.

I am 41 years old, I am a "second career" student, the first career being one that was achieved with only a high school diploma (now requires at least an AA degree). I am not some "kid" who has no idea how things work.

Sympathy for the OP/OT would be great...textbooks are extremely outrageous. My Biology book alone last semester would have taken half a months rent back in the '80's when I was beginning my "adult life"...$285 for one book, used...and I can't sell it back because now there is a new edition. Sympathy for loan issues is neither desired nor required...I am doing what I have to to survive.