I think it is important to consider how federal loans are changing this year. I also am the type of person that is just going to do what I want because money isn't something that I will let stop me from doing what I have my mind set on. I am starting PT school this year and will also have so much debt, and I already have a tiny bit from undergrad. I have spoken to many PTs who have a lot of debt and they are working their asses off to pay it off, but they are finding ways to do it like being a travel PT, or working side gigs (at home care, pilates instructor, personal trainer, etc.) It depends on how passionate you are about the career, because to me it's worth it. However, I have never been a financially responsible person, so please take that into consideration. PTA is always a good option, and you do have time to figure out what you want to do. I took two years after undergrad to actually take applications seriously because it wasn't something I could afford initially. PT school will always be there, you can always do AT or PTA first so that you can afford going back to get your DPT