The New York Times - "Room for Debate" Forum

I was contacted by an Op-Ed editor at the New York Times to submit an essay on my thoughts regarding what factors a new high school graduate should weigh in determining how much in loans he/she can afford to carry -- one that considers the impact of student loans on career choice, for instance. Should an 18-year-old take the long-term view on this issue? Or should one forgo a top choice school -- if it means carrying more debt?