Student debt affects us all, and everyone has a different perspective. See what people are saying, and let your own voice be heard. How has student debt affected you and the people you know? Low income students can find the funds to go to college. The combination of Pell grants, state aid, institutional aid, scholarships and loans can give them the financial resources they need. The problem with this is that you are making money managers of people with little experience in managing financial portfolios. Who counsels them on how to keep these portfolios balanced? Sara Martinez Tucker U.S. Under Secretary of Education Undertaking higher education is a risky enterprise. The average returns are high but they are also variable. Moreover, some who start will not finish, and will receive no return from their higher education. In short, investment in higher education is an equity investment like stock in a corporation. . . read more > Milton Friedman (1917-2006) Nobel Prize-winning economist It's not like we had a great national debate about whether we wanted to impose huge debts on young people. We just woke up one morning and it had happened. Pat Callan President, National Center on Public Policy and Higher Education I needed loans to get an education - an education this country says you need if you even hope to have a decent life. But education doesn't always translate to a good-paying job. Lynnae Brown Writer, filmmaker New York City How has student debt affected you? What does it mean for our families, economy, and society? Add Your Voice Borrowing money is probably the least desirable way to finance a college education. But it's smarter to take out loans than it is to forgo a college education. Barbara Whelehan Columnist, Bankrate.com Our nation's federal loan program encourages students to accrue debt, which unintentionally discourages them from marrying and having children. Allan Carlson President, Howard Center for Family, Religion, and Society more voices > The views expressed by individuals on these pages are their own.