Originally Posted by usmc-sgt

2005 timeframe
I was 23
my training likely cost somewhere around $45,000
My job was a Staff Sergeant in the Marine Corps (they are hiring) and my salary was around $3000 a month +- and more if I was deployed.
Took me around 2 years flying 3 nights a week after work (when I was around) and 1 weekend day.

GI bill paid 60% after my private and I paid cash for the rest. No debt and drove a $1200 ford ranger. Post 9/11 gi bill paid for degree in its entirety. Actually, they paid me to go to school around $1000 a month tax free.

I wasn’t special, I was no different than you. I just found solutions instead of loans.