For many families, higher education represents a pathway to opportunity, career advancement, and a better future. Yet for millions of Americans, the cost of obtaining that education can create a financial burden that lasts for decades. For low- and moderate-income households working to build financial stability and generational wealth, student loan debt can become a barrier to reaching important life goals—purchasing a home, saving for retirement, supporting family members, or simply experiencing financial peace.
For Mr. Shabazz, a Boston Public School teacher who prefers to remain anonymous, student loan debt became an overwhelming source of stress. Despite having an excellent credit score and a strong commitment to repayment, he felt as though he was falling further behind. “I was embarrassed about how much debt I was in,” Mr. Shabazz shared. “I also took out a loan for my daughter, and the payments were crazy. I have an excellent credit score, but every time I tried to pay, I was just getting more in debt because of the interest I was paying.” His experience reflects a challenge faced by many borrowers who struggle to understand the complexities of the federal student loan system, including repayment options, interest accumulation, and available forgiveness programs.
According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid office, borrowers may have access to repayment options designed to make federal student loan payments more manageable, including Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans. Learn more here.
Finding Guidance Through Urban Edge
Mr. Shabazz first connected with Urban Edge in 2014 when he received free tax preparation assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. During that visit, he learned that student loan borrowers may have options beyond simply struggling with monthly payments. He was referred to Ms. Junie, Urban Edge’s Foreclosure Prevention Counselor and Student Loan Specialist, for additional guidance. Ms. Junie understood that student loan debt was not just a financial issue—it was an emotional and personal challenge.
“Many people carry student loan debt silently because they feel ashamed, overwhelmed, or afraid of making the wrong decision,” Ms. Junie explained. “They are not ignoring their loans because they do not care. Many borrowers simply do not know where to start, who to trust, or what questions to ask.” She continued, “When people sign for student loans, they are often focused on achieving a dream—going to college, creating opportunities for themselves or their children, and building a better future. The repayment process can feel confusing because the rules, programs, and requirements are complex. My role is to help people understand their options and remind them that they deserve support while navigating this process.”
Helping Borrowers Understand Their Options
Ms. Junie emphasized that many borrowers experience financial stress because student loan repayment often begins after graduation, when individuals are already managing housing costs, family responsibilities, and other financial obligations. “Student loan debt does not exist in a vacuum,” Ms. Junie said. “People are balancing rent, mortgages, childcare, medical expenses, and everyday needs. Sometimes the loan becomes the bill they are most afraid to open because they do not know what they will find.”
“Many people think they have failed because they are struggling with their loans,” she added. “But the truth is that understanding your options, asking questions, and taking action are powerful steps toward financial freedom.” For eligible borrowers pursuing federal loan forgiveness programs, the Department of Education requires borrowers to meet specific criteria, which may include qualifying loan types, repayment plans, employment requirements, and certification processes. Requirements vary depending on the specific forgiveness program.
Examples include:
A Relationship Built on Trust and Accountability
Although Mr. Shabazz was initially uncomfortable discussing his debt, he quickly found that working with Ms. Junie created a safe and supportive environment. “It felt as though I had known her for a long time,” he said. Ms. Junie helped Mr. Shabazz stay organized, understand communications from his loan servicer, prepare questions, and remain accountable throughout the process.
“When I called Mohela, I would black out, and I wouldn’t remember anything,” he said. “Ms. Junie offered to call with me. She would ask questions I would not think of and was like a good attorney. She was on top of everything and always reminded me what I needed to do. She never made me feel dumb.”
A Decade of Persistence Leads to Student Loan Forgiveness
After nearly 10 years of guidance, persistence, and commitment, Mr. Shabazz received confirmation in March 2026 that his student loans had been completely forgiven. The relief was immediate. “I do not have to fear walking to my mailbox anymore and seeing a letter from my loan provider,” Mr. Shabazz said.
For Ms. Junie, witnessing borrowers reach financial milestones is one of the most rewarding parts of her work, “When someone finally receives forgiveness, you can feel the weight lifting from their shoulders,” Ms. Junie said. “It is more than a balance being reduced to zero. It is someone getting their future back. They can start thinking about their goals, their family, travel, savings, and building wealth instead of constantly worrying about debt.”
Building a Path Toward Financial Stability
Student loan debt can feel isolating, but borrowers do not have to navigate the process alone. Through financial counseling, education, and personalized support, Urban Edge helps community members understand their options, address debt challenges, improve financial confidence, and work toward long-term stability.
“Financial freedom does not happen overnight,” Ms. Junie said. “It happens one informed decision, one conversation, and one step at a time. Everyone deserves access to knowledge, support, and the opportunity to build a stronger financial future.” Urban Edge remains committed to helping residents overcome financial barriers and create pathways toward credit improvement, homeownership, and wealth-building opportunities.
Take the Next Step Toward Financial Confidence
Student loan debt, credit challenges, and financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming—but no one has to navigate these challenges alone. Urban Edge is here to help community members take practical steps toward financial stability. Residents are encouraged to to learn more about available financial empowerment resources and to sign up for the Credit Counseling Boot Camp, a program designed to provide education, tools, and strategies to help individuals strengthen their financial foundation.
To schedule an appointment with Ms. Junie, click here.
Whether you are struggling with student loans, working to improve your credit, preparing for homeownership, or seeking a clearer path toward building wealth, Urban Edge is committed to walking alongside you—one step, one conversation, and one financial goal at a time.
