How student loans became a $1.6 trillion problem

College is more expensive—and important—than ever before. Some 44 million Americans collectively hold nearly $1.6 trillion in student debt. And these numbers are growing. This decade alone, college costs increased by 25% and student debt increased by 107%. Today, college graduates earn 80% more than those with just a high school diploma. Do they risk going into crippling debt at the beginning of their adult lives in the hope the investment turns into a career and financial stability?