Nathan has several options to help finance his education to become a doctor:
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Scholarships and Grants: He should research scholarships and grants specifically for medical students. Many organizations, universities, and foundations offer aid based on merit, need, or specific criteria related to his background or intended specialty.
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Federal Student Loans: Nathan can apply for federal student loans through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal loans tend to have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared to private loans.
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Private Student Loans: If he needs additional funding beyond what federal loans and scholarships offer, he can consider private student loans. However, he should compare interest rates, terms, and conditions from various lenders before committing.
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Work-Study Programs: Many schools offer work-study programs that allow students to work part-time while studying. This could help Nathan cover some of his educational expenses.
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Income-Share Agreements (ISAs): Some institutions offer ISAs, where students pay a percentage of their future income for a set period after graduation instead of traditional tuition.
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Loan Forgiveness Programs: If Nathan is willing to work in underserved areas or specific fields after graduation, he could qualify for loan forgiveness programs such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
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Crowdfunding: Nathan could consider starting a crowdfunding campaign to help raise money for his education. This option works best when there are compelling stories and community engagement.
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Part-Time Work: Taking a part-time job related to the medical field, like a medical assistant or a research assistant, could provide him with income while gaining valuable experience.
By exploring these options and possibly combining several of them, Nathan can work towards financing his education and achieving his goal of becoming a doctor.