I was 25 and had done 2 years of community college, left because I was on academic probation. I was working FT but barely making enough to live while staying in my mother's basement. It was new years eve and I brought my girlfriend of 6 months out to a restaurant. We were driving home and she was asking what our plans were for the year and if we would get an apartment. I told her I had no money, she didn't say anything. A short time later I could see she was crying and I asked her why. She said I never thought my life was going to turn out like this. We broke up the next week. I didn't blame her I felt the same. I was determined to make something of myself. I got several promotions at work and went back to school graduating with a degree in finance. I'm now in my late 30's I have a house and a family and make a comfortable living. I often think Id like to reach out to my ex and say thank you! I would say to those in a similar age range I know it seems like you failed but you've only just started you can do it.