How to get $100,000.00 in debt

Go to law school. Actually, first graduate high school. Enroll in a university and take general studies. Rack up some debt by getting a student loan, signing up for a few first-time credit cards, and make sure that you have all the good things in life - bikes, holidays, weekend trips, climbing gear, cool duds, some coyboy boots for the Calgary Stampede. You know, all the essentials. Limit summer working so that you can go on language exchange programs and such. Graduate with a B.A. or B.Sc. Spend a bunch of time and money preparing to take the LSAT. Spend a bunch of time and money preparing your law school applications. Get accepted.

Next, show up on your first day, and start shelling out dough for textbooks and tuition. Don't forget that differential fee. Plead for a bursary. Get turned down.

Spend umpteen hours reading for 100% exams during your first year. Forget about part-time work. You don't have time.

Spend umpteen hours writing essays and preparing for more 100% exams in your 2L and 3L years. Forget summer jobs - you are too busy applying for articling positions.

Buy some good suits for your articling interviews. You'll need more than one - you don't want to wear the same one to a second or third interview!

Spend most of your hard earned dough during your articling year on more suits, sushi and steak lunches with senior associates and partners, and bribes.

There you have it. At least $100,000.00 in debt.

My experience wasn't exactly as described above. But, it was definitely along the same pathway. Be careful out there. Debt can enslave you. It doesn't have to be this way.