High school seniors across Texoma received their diplomas this weekend and many we spoke with said they are ready for the future.

“I could not be more ecstatic to be moving on to the next chapter of life,” Hirschi High School graduate Megan Neely said.

Many of them have plans to continue their education.

“I’m going to the University of Texas at Arlington,” Hirschi High School graduate Millicent Paris said.

When asked how they were going to pay for their future educational journeys, many said student loans. The average debt for college graduates in 2014 in Texas as $26,250. For graduates at MSU, it was $25,550 according to The Institute For College Access and Success.

Officials said borrowers are graduating with more debt than they did ten years ago.

Here are some ways to avoid student loan debt:
* Start Saving Early
* Choose Cheaper College
* Start at Community College
* Pre-Pay on Loans
* Apply For Financial Aid & Scholarships
* Work
* Borrow Wisely
* Pay Tuition in Installments

– Newschannel 6