The U.S. Department of Education announced that its Office of Federal Student Aid would resume collections of its defaulted federal student loan portfolio on Monday, May 5, 2025. (https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-begin-federal-student-loan-collections-other-actions-help-borrowers-get-back-repayment)
The current economic climate offers an opportunity to reassess the path of college and the risk of debt accumulation for graduating seniors who are charting their course without scholarships or solid career plans.
Juanita Banks-Whittington; her husband, Ian Whittington; and Ashley Logan Graham offered insight into how they navigated past student loan debt and found career success and satisfaction.
Juanita Banks-Whittington
Odenton, Maryland
Juanita Banks-Whittington earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in social work with a concentration in mental health. She is a licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) who works as an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Program Manager.
Banks-Whittington did not want to be burdened by student loan debt, so she knew that she had to find another way.
“That’s when I made the life-changing decision to join the Maryland Army National Guard. Through the G.I. Bill and tuition assistance, the National Guard helped fund my education, allowing me to avoid student loans. More than that, it gave me structure, leadership skills, and real-world experience that continued to shape my life today,” said Banks-Whittington.
As a Human Resource Specialist (42A) in the National Guard, Banks-Whittington gained leadership, discipline, and skills that continue to serve her today.
“After leaving the military, I used my benefits to keep learning and carving out my own path,” Banks-Whittington also said.
She shared insight for young people who may still be exploring their future career plans.
“Whether it’s college, a trade, military service, or starting your own brand, do what feels right for you. Don’t let fear, finances, or other people’s opinions define your journey. Your dreams and voice matter, and your journey is valid as long as you make it your own.”
Photo courtesy of the Whittingtons
Ian Whittington
Odenton, Maryland
Juanita’s husband, Ian, earned a bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity. He works as an infrastructure engineer and reflected on his experiences sorting through career options.
“When I graduated high school, I planned to join the military. I had already enlisted before graduating. My view on attending college was that it’s not for everyone. At that time, I knew it was not for me,” Ian recalled.
Ian observed many people who were older than him going to college and accumulating debt just to work a job making less than what he would consider ideal. He elected to join the Navy immediately after high school, attend trade school to become an electronics technician, then pivot into IT.
“I enrolled in a now-defunct tech school, ITT Technical Institute. Unfortunately, I waited too long to utilize the G.I. Bill and took on a decent amount of student loan debt with the understanding that this education could provide a path to making six figures. Although not guaranteed, I saw that as a risk I was willing to take. If it paid off, I would be able to pay off the loan easily,” Ian stated.
He added, “Once the 2008 financial crisis hit, I pivoted to IT by obtaining my bachelor’s degree. I was successfully employed in the field before graduation. I have been in IT for well over a decade now, moving from a network administrator to a network engineer, then to an IT manager, and finally finding a sweet spot as a senior-level engineer. I am now working to pivot within IT by pursuing my master’s degree student loan-free, thanks to my wife’s veteran benefits.”
“Trades are excellent options; hands-on work is in high demand, offers good pay, and provides job security. Evaluate your interests and check the earning potential. If a degree isn’t required, use those years to gain real experience. If college is your goal, but scholarships aren’t an option, consider joining the military and utilizing the G.I. Bill,” Ian informed.
He added, “Avoid student loan debt if possible.”
Photo credit: Chris Graham
Ashley Logan Graham
Southern Maryland
Ashley Logan Graham, a wife, mother, IT Project Manager and entrepreneur, attended community college for a year and a half in her youth. She paid out of pocket, and books were very expensive for her while she was working at a childcare facility and earning minimum wage. She worked in childcare but eventually collaborated with a temporary employment agency.
“That changed my life. The temp agency allowed me to work as a data analyst for nonprofits, McDonald’s Corporation, and government agencies, which led me to a full-time position where I worked as a data analyst for 10 years,” Graham explained.
She further explained that her supervisor at the time provided a certification plan and advised Graham that if she did not want to pursue the college route, Graham should obtain a certification in project management to become a project manager and gain enough experience to become a Subject Matter Expert (SME).
“I followed his advice, and it was successful for me,” she said.
Graham advised young people to pursue internships, study diligently, and seek out co-workers who could serve as mentors.
“These mentors can introduce them to career paths that align with their aspirations. As long as they remain lifelong learners and focus on their goals, they will find their way and achieve success,” Graham stated.
