Career Planning

Your career starts with a plan. Our career planning resources are designed to illuminate the path from education to employment, offering insights into job markets, emerging industries, and the skills you need to succeed.

Considerations for Planning Your Career

If you have a career in mind already, research the typical salary range in your chosen field. This will help you assess how much debt is manageable based on potential future earnings. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends borrowing no more than you expect to earn in one year from an entry-level position after graduation.
If you aren’t sure what you want to do after graduation, that’s OK! One way to save is to take your general education courses at a community college before transferring to a more expensive university. Your degree is the same as those who attended all four years!
If you plan to go into a public service field, such as government work, teaching, or nursing, check out our guide to loan forgiveness programs for those professions.

Before taking out loans, exhaust all "free money" options. Scholarships and grants can significantly reduce the amount you need to borrow.
Include tuition, fees, books, and living expenses in your calculations. Understanding the full cost can help you borrow only what you need.
If you haven’t decided on a career yet, research growing industries and job stability within your field of interest. Economic trends can impact job availability and salaries.
Utilize our advisers for career counseling and financial aid advising. They’ll help you make informed decisions about your education and career path, and a consultation is absolutely free, whether you’re an existing SCSL loan holder or not!