The Biden administration’s student loan forgiveness program continues to elicit varied reactions from college students in Mississippi, despite Donald Trump’s return to the White House for a second term.
The program's long-term sustainability and effects remain points of contention.
The U.S. Department of Education has announced that more than 1 million borrowers have had their loans forgiven under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. PSLF allows qualifying public service workers to have their remaining student loan balances discharged after 10 years of consistent payments. Mississippi ranks as the second-highest state in terms of loan forgiveness funds distributed, underscoring the program’s significant impact on borrowers in the state.
Abrieanna Smith, a University of Southern Mississippi student, said her mother, a military veteran, benefited greatly from the program. This experience influenced Smith’s decision to pursue an English degree in hopes of qualifying for similar forgiveness in the future.
"I think without this, students wouldn’t want to further their education and even get master’s degrees," Smith said. "I noticed how much it helped my mom, and I wanted the same for me in my future degree."
For students like Smith, the program provides hope amid rising tuition costs and concerns about repaying loans after graduation. She emphasized that it’s not only about financial relief but also about reducing stress while focusing on future career goals.
"It's not just about the money," Smith added. "It's about having the opportunity to focus on your career without the constant stress of debt."
Jordaen Samuel, a Southern Miss forensic science student, echoed a similar sentiment. Though the program’s 10-year payment requirement did not influence his decision to pursue a career in government, he appreciates its potential to alleviate financial strain on public service workers.
"It’s a relief to know there’s an option out there to help, especially if you’re pursuing a job that might not pay as much as other fields," Samuel said. “The 10 years might sound long, but it’s worth it if it means being debt-free eventually."
The student loan forgiveness program has become a focal point in national discussions. Supporters highlight its benefits for borrowers and its role in encouraging students to pursue careers in critical fields, such as education, healthcare, and public safety. Critics, however, question the program's financial sustainability, arguing that it places a burden on taxpayers and fails to address the root causes of rising student debt.
“I hope President Trump has an idea of how to fix the program, because it’s not the best plan,” USM student Toby Holekamp.
Some Mississippi students have voiced concerns that scaling back or eliminating the program could deter young people from entering public service professions.
Samuel emphasized the broader societal benefits.
“The government needs to look at this as an investment,” Samuel. “If more people can afford to work in public service, it helps society as a whole.”
For many Mississippi borrowers, the PSLF program represents more than just financial relief—it offers a path toward achieving career goals without being weighed down by debt. As debates about the program's future continue, its impact on students and their families remains significant.
