Loading ...MTV Takes a Stand on Student Debt
Sure, you may not be a fan of the latest music videos, but a recent endeavor by MTV may have more parents standing up to say they want their MTV!
Awareness for the Next Generation
In an effort to help raise awareness about the pitfalls of debt, MTV’s college-focused arm (mtvU) created a new website called InDebtEd.com.
The site was initially created to launch a challenge inviting students to submit ideas for a video game that addresses our nation’s current fiscal problems. The deadline for applications passed last week, and the winner of a $10,000 prize is set to be announced January 23rd.
MTV Helps Students Get Involved
InDebtEd.com has much more to offer than the video game challenge, however. It features a series of important information pieces about the current financial situation of both the country and it’s citizens (did you know the average amount of debt per capita in the U.S. is about $184,000?)
It also offers students ways to get involved on several levels. They suggest starting with personal financial responsibility, such as refusing unnecessary credit card offers and students balancing their own individual budgets. (Your student can learn more about how to set a budget at our sister site, Surviving College Life.)
The site also offers students ideas about how to get involved with the government, advocating fiscal change where it is needed, as well as sharing info about debt with their peers.
Mom, Where Does Debt Come From?
You probably won’t be hearing this question from your child–that’s why it is so important that you be willing to start the conversation.
It’s great that influences like MTV are getting involved in the debt conversation, but often the most influential education starts at home. As your student embarks on the journey of getting that college education, take the opportunity to discuss the serious issues of debt and financial responsibility with your students.
(My article about 5 Ways to Raise Financially Savvy Kids is a great place to start!) After all, finding ways to minimize debt to pay for college may end up saving your family thousands over the long term!
All the best,
Deborah Fox
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[...] According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, most national higher education groups are hoping for an increase in federal loan availability, believing it will both increase student ability to afford school and decrease the need for riskier private loans–but not everyone feels that way. Opposing voices share the concern that more student loan availability will only lead to greater student debt, in a time when even mTV is concerned with how much students are borrowing ! [...]
February 2nd, 2009 at 5:34 pm[...] MTV Takes a Stand on Student Debt [...]
February 2nd, 2009 at 5:35 pmI really enjoyed reading your articles. Hope to get back here again and read some more.
May 26th, 2009 at 12:03 pm