OP I feel your pain to “some extent”. I question the logistics of why get into 50+k in debt for a degree just to get over the avg 35k income threshold then I think of all the people who are homeless, work at walmart,and those who rely HEAVILY on government assistance(those who have NO intentions to get a job). It's funny those lacking education are the main ones who feel this sense of entitlement.
It sucks ass,the system is really jacked up but if you dont want live paycheck to paycheck,having to decide what bill to pay this month,rent/mortgage or health/auto insurance. I have been in this point in my life and it does NOT feel great. So believe me, I know. I havent had to file bankruptcy thank God but still.
I try to think of education as more of an “investment” and it's a risk. Im not sure if people realize that. No a college student is not a corporation but every time you pay tuition, you are taking a risk on an investment(just my perspective). In the end the HEFTY price of an education outweighs the obstacles you've listed. You have MORE opportunities and don't have to settle as “much” compare to someone without an education.
And I think you have to define your own success…I recently spoke with my therapist and I was stressing out. I told her that, I am afraid that I will never be able to own a home or enjoy life because of student loans. She simply told me that she had friends who are doctors, fellow colleagues, chemists that STILL rent! She said, who says you have to own a house,why does that measure your success. She said people rent for their entire lives! A house is a commitment that brings about EXTRA expenses GALORE, property tax, fire insurance, flood insurance, house insurance, maintenance expenses, typically higher utilities. I am fine with renting a house instead of owning one, that way if I or my fiance need to relocate, it wont be a hassle we can just pack up and say SAYONARA! Lol