Once again, women find themselves on unequal footing. This time, it’s student loan debt.

A recent report, Deeper in Debt: Women and Student Loans, by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), found that student loans are burdening women disproportionately. Women of color, low-income women, and female students who drop out before getting their degree suffered to an even greater extent.

The statistics are stunning. As of 2017, student loan debt hit an all-time high of $1.7 trillion.  More than 44 million Americans owe an average of $37,000.

So, how’s paying back all that dough working out for everybody? According to our recent survey of 1,000 Americans, the answer is decidedly mixed. Much depends on the student’s field of study, who got help from parents, and what type of institution they attended.

In the words of talk show host Wendy Williams, “How you doin?”

Before you answer, maybe you should look to your right and your left and see how your “neighbor” is doing to get a different perspective. It’s easy to have a false sense of security when you’re looking in the mirror only at yourself. 

Looking for a vacay that won't break the bank? We've got you covered. Here are our picks for the best affordable east coast vacations. 

Best of all, several of these spots offer fun and relaxation in winter and summer. Choose your destination and pack your bags!

Some say more is better, but less is okay too, especially if you’re talking about student loan payments.

Consolidating loans – meaning you combine multiple loans into one new loan with one new monthly payment — can simplify your student loan debt management. 

You may not be in a position to take that bucket list trip right now, but that's not to say you have to settle for a staycation. 

If you pick your destination wisely, that's half the battle. Look for venues that are not on everyone's must-go list, but still have the qualities that matter to you. Here are a few budget-friendly ideas to get you started.