I have no idea where my situation falls in the "normal" range but here it is. I graduated from DeVry in early 1995 with a BS-EET. I had been given a 1/2 tuition scholarship from DeVry and took out loans for the remainder. I worked to support myself and used loans only for school. I came out of school owing something like only $18K. I say "only" now because almost 20 years later that doesn't feel like a lot of money. But fresh out of school, it sure felt like a lot... even making more money than I had ever seen in life to that point. But I had roommates. I opted to not buy a new car... driving my beater truck from school. I didn't get married and have kids. I actually made paying off my student loans one of my higher priorities and ended up doing so in less than 5 years [so not my top priority :)] Daunting? not really. It was very manageable. But I think times have changed... so my tale probably isn't as relevant today.