2 answers
Keith’s Answer
The Rule of 3
1st year on the job - spend all your time getting to know the job. Who to align with to get things done. Learn the job soup to nuts
2nd year - Excel at your job. Use your allies and network to differentiate yourself from others
3rd year - Repeat year 2 so your boss doesn't think it was a fluke (mistake)
After your 3rd year is when you look to move up on move one. **NOTE: The higher your position in leadership, the longer the tail. Don't expect to make it through the leadership ranks as quickly as starting from the front-line.
Alissa’s Answer
Hi Ashley,
I am currently paying back student loans and I don't think it has much of an impact on my success. If you have the opportunity to apply for student loans and it is something that you can reasonably do, I would recommend - especially if it's the difference between going to school or not. While they can be tough to pay off over the years, it is absolutely possible. There are also options to defer your payments for a few months or years before you start to make them. In addition, most loan companies will help you come up with the most affordable option in order to be able to make your monthly payments.
I definitely recommend you use the student loan option to your advantage if it is available to you. As always, this is going to be different for each individual, so I can really only speak to mine.
Good luck!