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David Canterbury wrote:

Hi, guys —

After flunking out of a Catholic university and being a 4th-year student, I'm nearly $70,000 in debt, and the career service office told me to apply at a temp agency or warehouse. This proves I gained no economic benefit and am behind on my student loan payments. I have see no real path to at least earn an associate's degree by transferring to a community college.

  • Why should I continue being Catholic?

I'm angry, lonely, and poor. I can't afford to move out of my parents, get married and start a family because of my high debt and low income. Catholic education in America doesn't reduce poverty; it manufactures poverty.

  • What real options do I have for gaining a credential and having economic stability?
David
  { With this school debt and inability to start a family, why should I continue being Catholic and what options do I really have? }

Bob replied:

Dear David,

Thanks for the question.

I hear your frustration and distress in your situation.  

This is a tragedy for many students at every type of university across the country.  Too often, students are sent to college with high hopes yet are sold short on their options post-education, not to mention the mound of debt they incur.  

This is really not about Catholic education, but the whole university system.  Don't let this institutional failure mix with your faith in God.  Catholic universities aren't always Catholic: not in their philosophy, theology, or practice, even when they carry the name, Catholic.  This is another tragedy.

You need to find a good mentor, someone you trust, who will give you honest advice, even when you don't like it, and try to explore some other options.  

You don't need a degree to make a good living. You just need a good work ethic and willingness to do things that people need done.  You just have to pray that God shows you the right path and be willing to change course if necessary.

In the end, being Catholic is being a disciple of Jesus Christ, following Him, and doing His will.  Let that be the focus of your prayer, and I guarantee your situation will come together; just be patient.

Peace,

Bob Kirby

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