From work study to meal plans, here’s how college students can avoid debt

Summary by Laredo News Editorial Desk · Based on reporting by Rachel DePompa, KGNS — Sitewide · July 23, 2026 · 2 min read

( InvestigateTV ) — As students head to college, a personal finance expert says knowing how to handle money early can prevent significant debt down the road. Kionnie Epps, founder of the YouTube channel The Responsible Homegirl, said one of the most overlooked financial realities for college stud...

Why this matters in Laredo News

For Laredo students heading to college, whether locally or elsewhere, the advice from personal finance expert Kionnie Epps takes on particular relevance given the financial realities many families in Webb County face. As students navigate the transition to higher education, they must also contend with the potential for reduced financial aid after their first year, making long-term planning crucial. By taking advantage of work study programs, on-campus jobs, and scholarships, Laredo students can develop strong financial habits that will serve them well beyond their college years. Moreover, being mindful of spending and avoiding debt will be essential for students who plan to return to Laredo after graduation, where they will be part of the local workforce and community. By forming good habits early, these students can set themselves up for financial stability and success in their future careers, ultimately contributing to the economic vitality of the Laredo area.

About this story

Original reporting by KGNS — Sitewide. Laredo News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page.

For the complete original report, visit KGNS — Sitewide. Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom.

Category: schools · Published: July 23, 2026 · Source: KGNS — Sitewide · Reading time: 2 min

Frequently asked about this story

What is this story about?

When was this published?

This article was first published on July 23, 2026 by KGNS — Sitewide and curated for Laredo News readers.

Who reported this story?

This story was reported by Rachel DePompa at KGNS — Sitewide. To learn more about how Laredo News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards.

Where can I find related coverage?

See more schools coverage from Laredo News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs.

Summary created by	Laredo News Editorial Desk — automated, rule-governed
Original reporting	Rachel DePompa, KGNS — Sitewide
Original story	Read at the source
Source published	Jul 23, 2026
Indexed here	Jul 23, 2026
AI assistance	Automated summary drawn from the source’s own published text
Prepublication human review	No — editorial rules, flagged-item review, and published samples

From work study to meal plans, here’s how college students can avoid debt

More stories

Webb County Sheriff’s Office to host school supply drive

‘Very concerning’: Mother of 4 fighting for her life after contracting salmonella on church trip

Saudi nuclear deal hinges on acceptance of the Abraham Accords

From work study to meal plans, here’s how college students can avoid debt

Man found dead near Rio Grande in Nuevo Laredo

Father charged after distressed 11-year-old daughter flags down police officer, says her dad was trying to kill her

‘Felt like a demon walked up on me’: Woman says stranger sexually assaulted her while shopping

Millions of eggs sold at Kroger, Brookshire’s locations in several states recalled for salmonella concerns

Catholic Charities collecting supplies for Zavala County flood victims

Glow Run draws 700+ to Independence Hills Park

Learn composting and bookmaking at free library event

Morning Brew #42 | THE TRUTH ABOUT YOUR SKIN: A Dermatology Expert Busts the Biggest Beauty Myths

Get the briefing.