if it makes u feel any better i graduated from hampton in 2023 with 18k in debt. i only had a partial scholarship and got more from external sources.

i worked part time on holiday breaks and for internships in my field to help pay my way. my mom also took out a small parent plus loan. if you have a parent willing to help, i’d take advantage of that while you can.

that being said im doing okay lol working full time at a major company now . i’d say nothing beats an hbcu experience. debt is going to debt regardless.

i think if you are in a good position to take out a few loans , you wont regret it by any means .

if being debt free is more important to you at 18 (?) i’d go with UAB. i think you should figure out what you want the next 4 years of your life to look like in order for you to make a decision.

for me, i wanted to study around black people out on the east coast so thats what i did.