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Well that is sad. I was asked to do this piece as a cautionary tale to students that are taking on huge loads of debt. Many people were originally part of this story, but eventually backed-out due to not wanting their names and personal information in the public eye. I stuck my neck out, and feel I did a noble thing - I am not proud of how much I make, I am embarrassed that I was young and dumb and didn't know or care about interest rates and loans. I have to deal with this on a day-to-day basis. I did not go out and look for a reporter to do a story on me; I was contacted. I think I know first-hand that life isn't fair, but thanks for making that brilliant observation, what an amazing and refreshing slice of philosophy you've introduced. If I was to quit my job and become a tattoo artist to make twice as much money it would just be an immediate financial gratification decision, but it's not what I want to do. Yet I have confidence in my position, this is my career and I feel I can capitalize on my education. The sky is the limit in my field when it comes to salary. Unfortunately tattoo artist reach a ceiling when it comes to pay. I think you're making a bad decision every time you attempt to write a complete, clear and concise sentence.

Well, let me re-phrase that for you - "the job you have now MAY not be the job you want in the future." You don't know me, and you jumping to your own conclusions regarding my personal career choices is only furthering the catalyst that induces your stereotyping. I rather resent your condescending cordiality, so don't patronize me please. For one thing, privileged people in your superior position might not know if I have tattoos if I have long sleeves on. Hell, I could be a tattoo artist right now, and make double what I make, but I have goals of becoming a creative director, and using advertising alongside my talent to help charitable organizations. I understand that prejudice is a naturally occurring psychological behavior in almost all species of life. Except, we as humans have the choice, to understand that things aren't always what they seem. That piece-of-advice can get you a lot further in life; your introverted and isolated view of the world is just bleak. I guess you're just gonna have to kick those old-fashioned values, and understand that tattoo shops in themselves are becoming a larger sector in this country's economy. Still trying to figure out what selves of tats are too, by the way. LOL

@lasvegas2009: I'm Eric -- the one featured in this story. Just wanted to answer a few of your questions; first of all, my best friend does all of my tattoo and has been since he was an apprentice, and I haven't paid for any "ink" in almost 5 years. I agreed and plan to pay these loans back, and do believe loans are made between two consenting and responsible adults. However, I was taken advantage of in many ways that AREN'T explained in this story, but I won't get into that right now. My employer should make their decision on my raises based on my work performance. Considering I'm a graphic artist/illustrator, I don't meet with clients, and I work behind the scenes...My artwork speaks for itself. I don't think i need to defend myself, just wanted to make that clear. You are obviously ignorant in your prejudices, and may want to rethink your social outlook. Thanks to everyone else for the kind words, and good luck to anyone else in my position. -- Just know things will always work themselves out.