Final answer:
The question covers the challenges of managing student loan debt and living expenses for a recent college graduate, emphasizing the importance of financial planning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scenario provided about Chelsea Menken illustrates a common issue faced by recent college graduates: managing student loan debt and living expenses with entry-level professional salaries.
Chelsea's case shows a financial situation where her take-home pay is $52,800 annually, apartment rent costs $1,200 per month, and she has accumulated $38,000 in student loans, paying $385 per month, and $9,000 in credit card debt, paying the minimum of $240 per month. Given the increasing costs of college education and the rising student loan debt, it is imperative for graduates like Chelsea to engage in careful financial planning and budgeting to manage their expenses and debts effectively.