She can't get payment relief on her $137,000 in private student loans. It's a warning for millions of federal borrowers.

""They're so debilitating, so crippling. I don't mind that I borrowed money to go to university, but what I've looked at in turn is that I've paid back nearly double what I've borrowed.""

""High interest rates coupled with interest capitalization are the main reasons for Ferguson's ever-growing balance, making it hard to manage her financial obligations.""

""Private student loans lack affordable repayment plans and the possibility of federal loan forgiveness, which are critical differences for borrowers facing repayment challenges.""

""Conflicting information from customer service representatives has made it hard for Ferguson to understand her next steps in securing lower payments from her lender.""

Samantha Ferguson borrowed over $104,000 in private student loans to study politics in Scotland. Despite paying $200,000, she still owes $137,000 due to high interest rates and capitalization. Recently laid off, she struggles with $1,500 monthly payments and has not received relief from MOHELA, the loan servicer. Private loans lack affordable repayment plans and forgiveness options, exacerbating the financial strain on borrowers. Conflicting information from customer service has made it difficult for Ferguson to navigate her repayment options.

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