Final answer:
In the face of financial struggles after school, especially during the economic downturn following the 2008 recession, graduates had a range of options such as starting a part-time job, seeking family support, applying for government programs, or taking on more student loans. The choice depended on individual circumstances, including the availability of government aid and family resources.
Step-by-step explanation:
During times of financial difficulty after school, such as those experienced by many in the aftermath of the 2008 financial recession, individuals often had to find ways to cope with the challenging job market and the burden of student loans. Many recent graduates faced the dilemma of having to move back with their parents while struggling with loan repayment. Those finding themselves in this situation had a few options.
One could start a part-time job to support themselves, which seems to be a common step for those needing immediate income while possibly seeking full-time employment. Alternatively, some individuals might have relied on financial assistance from their family, especially if their parents or relatives were in a position to help. Others might have applied for government assistance programs to aid in their survival during rough economic patches, or they might have pursued further education and took on additional student loans to cover new educational and living expenses. Each of these options comes with unique challenges and implications for one's future financial stability and independence.
Given the increased availability of programs like the Pell Grant and the lowering of interest rates on student loans during the Obama administration, educational and financial strategies might have been influenced by such developments.