Jessica Huston

Artist, 32

Private Student Loan Balance: $61,500
(Have been paying $586/mo. For 10 years, Equals approx. another $70,000. Never missed a payment)

Federal Student Loan Balance: $73,000
(Currently under an IBR (income based repayment) plan which makes my payments $0/mo.)

Approx Total Student Loan Debt (including accrued and capitalized interest): $204,500

I went to school to major in painting and print making because I am an artist. I have used the skills I learned in my work and added other business skills along the way. College was invaluable in showing me who I truly am through art. I currently manage a Menswear Boutique in Los Angeles and supplement my income with other odd jobs including selling my art at he store.

If I didn’t have student debt, I would have money to put away for my daughters college fund so she would never have to be in this situation. I would be able to afford to live in a place with a little more room. My daughter is growing up. I would be able to take care of maintenance on my car and anything else that might break or need attention. I would be able to take my daughter on a vacation. Being free from debt would help me sleep better at night.

Join the Movement


Sign our pledge to show that you support debt freedom!

Share Your Story


Student debt impacts millions of people, of all ages.

What would you do if you were free from the student debt trap? How would your life be different?

Submit Story