I can’t give financial advice, but the good news is that you’ve got something more powerful than money: a purpose. You don’t just want that career as a way to make money, right? You want to help people. Start by finding ways to help people who are in need that don’t require money. Even the part-time job that you have could be a way to help make the world better if you have the right frame of mind. Redefine your job, at least in your own mind. Get every bit of spiritual satisfaction out of it that you can. If time permits, volunteer.

Another thing you can do is work against the injustice of high education costs. There are a lot of young people just like you: some struggling under mountains of debt, others who can’t even take that debt on. There is strength in numbers, and I have faith that those numbers will eventually make a difference. Look online for organizations who are taking action against the high cost of education and find out how you can get involved. Education should not be a luxury, but a right to all who are bright enough and dedicated enough. Know that we are with you.

In the long term, search for good educational values. There are some inexpensive schools with really dynamite professors.

Last but not least, read. Keep an active mind. You may even find a new niche – something else to be passionate about, some other way to make your mark.

Dear Kelsi:

The plan of going to the college near you and taking the new major you planned on taking this coming spring didn’t work out.

Make another plan.

Maybe work and save money this time; maybe another college, another school, one with less expensive tuition- some work-and-study program. And better not burden your retired father. Find a way.

anita