In 2016, I was headed to college and knew I wanted to graduate debt-free. I had a couple of scholarships, but none of them were full-rides. I also didn’t plan on working during the semesters, so I had no idea where the extra finances to cover the cost would come from. I just knew what I wanted and that I was going to get it. My mom knew my plan and was supportive but concerned. She knew that it was almost impossible to graduate debt-free without a full ride or a solid plan.