Chris argues that taking on massive student loan debt has become one of the worst financial decisions young people can make. Citing comments from billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban, he explains why community colleges, affordable state schools, and alternative paths to education often provide similar value without saddling graduates with decades of debt. He challenges parents to rethink the prestige game surrounding expensive universities and makes the case that lifelong learning has never been more accessible. Chris also questions whether families should reveal their financial hand through the college aid process and offers practical advice for avoiding a financial burden that can derail future wealth-building.