What are your thoughts on student loans vs. working so that you can pay as you go through college?

student loans
cardtapper asked:


I am meeting more and more young people who are getting both their undergraduate degrees and Master’s degrees by taking out student loans. They graduate with lots of debt. Is this the usual thing now-a-days? Do you think it is possible to work and pay as you go?
To those of you who are researching loan info: I’m not looking for financing for school. I am asking for your opinion/experience regarding working your way through school vs. taking out loans and ending up with debt.