When you invest for short-term goals, your time horizon usually precludes you from investing in the stock market. Stock investments are normally more appropriate when you’re investing for long-term goals. Instead of stocks, you should consider investing in:

• Money market accounts and funds
• Short-term certificates of deposit (CDs)
• Savings accounts

To put away money for short-term goals, sign up to have money automatically deducted each month from your checking account. You’ll force yourself to save and invest.

Is it worth incurring more debt to go to graduate school?

When you pursue a graduate degree, there are no guarantees that you’ll have made a good investment of your time and money. You may not realize the income, personal satisfaction or career choices you expected. Above all, make sure you’re pursuing a graduate degree because it’s something you want to do and it’s not just to please your parents.

Am I eligible for loan forgiveness?

Under certain circumstances, your obligation to pay back a student loan may be forgiven.

Generally, you may qualify for full or partial loan forgiveness if:

• You perform certain types of volunteer work.
• You are in the military.
• You teach or practice medicine in specified types of communities.
• You meet other criteria stipulated by the forgiveness program.