When young adults depart from their college towns for their winter break, some of the most fiscally responsible students don’t simply use the month and a half off at home to drink eggnog and spread Christmas cheer.

Many continue their studies at the Butler County Community College, knocking out elective credits and making progress toward their four-year degrees with classes they take there.

Butler County residents are fortunate to have such a resource nearby. BC3 has been selected by Niche.com as the No. 1 community college in Pennsylvania for the 10th consecutive year. The most recent title continues through 2025.

It’s also made its way on other top lists, including those on BestColleges.com and Schools.com. It’s no stranger to the number-one slot on those charts, either.

When opportunity exists, college students should aim to cut down on their student debt.

According to Education Data Initiative, in August 2024, the average federal student loan debt is $37,853 per borrower. Many owe more.

Other ways to limit student debt include maximizing funding sources by working a job while attending school or limiting living expenses by seeking less expensive living arrangements when possible.

Loan options should be understood and evaluated.

The Education Data Initiative has called it a crisis. Student loan debt affects more than 43 million Americans who collectively owe a total of $1.75 trillion in federal and private loan debt, according to the data source in July 2024.

Student debt is undoubtedly out of control. Students today must be aware of the debt they will incur and take actions to lessen it where possible.

Parents must take time to set their children up for success rather than a life full of debt.

Opportunities to reduce debt, shouldn’t be passed up when possible.

— TL