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This was a good book to follow the other recent reads. Toulmin says we don't want a science that is based on the expectation of universal truth (and subliminally on controlling the populace). The question then is, what tool do you use to reliably make difficult decisions? Capra proposes to give a new vision of science – it's built on multiple pillars on knowledge and it uses reduction sometimes but not all the time, and it looks for patterns – but I'm still not clear as to how that helps me in figuring out how to counsel a friend who is skeptical of vaccines. In this book, Wendell Berry does a nice job of honing in on how you figure out what to do in a world without certainty, on where reduction is useful and where it's destructive, and on how these big ideas apply to quotidian human decisions.
Before I get into that though, I'd like to pause to acknowledge the design of this book. It was such a pleasure to hold, so agreeable to observe.
The cover is some sort of silky material – not slick – there's just enough grain to give it some substance. It feels a lot like finely sanded wood does before you apply the stain and varnish. It's just the right size, easy to slip into a jacket pocket, easy to hold open with one hand – and the page design is so clean, understated, classy… The Kindle has a long way to go before it matches this. All of which is appropriate because the pages contain the argument that the component parts of a thing (for instance the sentiment of the words and the way it feels in the hand) cannot be separated without some loss.
In doing this Berry is getting directly at what I'll call the the crying baby test. If I'm talking to someone about their proposal for a new paradigm or some big new way of thinking, I'll try and stop at some point and think – this is all very exciting, but does it help me in any way if I've got a screaming baby and I want to figure out how to get it to stop crying? It's a test for science as well as philosophy: You can find over 2000 scientific articles about excessive crying on PubMed – you'll find broad surveys that talk about how economic status and age correlates with average crying time – and you'll find narrow studies of a cascade of chemicals may trigger crying in the brain. There are a few semi-useful articles on treatments (swaddling – regular sleep schedule). But then there's another review showing that it's impossible to define excessive crying and saying that normality is a clinically useless concept. None of this is likely to help with the crisis at hand. Science can offer some clues – but it never provides certainty.
One of our problems is that we humans cannot live without acting; we have to act. Moreover, we have to act on the basis of what we know, and what we know is incomplete. What we have come to know so far is demonstrably incomplete, since we keep on learning more, and there seems little reason to think that our knowledge will become significantly more complete. The mystery surrounding our life probably is not significantly reducible. And so the question of how to act in ignorance is paramount.
Culture provides the answer, according to Berry. But in this era where innovation has far outstripped the development of culture, we have resorted to acting on the basis of incomplete knowledge as if it were complete – or at least with the assumption "that our knowledge will increase fast enough to outrace the bad consequences of the arrogant use of incomplete knowledge. To trust 'progress' or our putative 'genius' to solve all the problems we cause is worse than bad science; it is bad religion."
Superstition, as defined by Stevie Wonder, is when you believe in things you don't understand. The problem is, if you only believe in what you do understand you are left with very little to go on – it fails the crying baby test. So scientific fundamentalists find themselves in the position on having to fill in the area between our points of accepted knowledge with theory, supposition, and faith. Berry's subtitle is "An essay against modern superstition" and he's pointing out that the faith in science (to solve all our problems) is itself a belief in something we don't understand.
I should say that this is essentially a book-long rebuttal of E.O. Wilson's Consilience, a book I liked when I read it – but one that left me with questions. Mainly – Wilson was saying that eventually science will explain everything, an effort I'm happy to support, but what do I do in the meantime? (There's also the issue of Wilson's language – he, like a lot of science writers, appeals to overblown tropes to help lift him over the thin ice. Berry characterizes it perfectly: "he is elatedly confident that he is right.") Consilience is a pretty idea, but again, it fails the crying baby test.
So how do we act in ignorance? That, Berry says, is the function of culture. In this age we honor the conquistadors of new territory, new ideas, the people who bring us new innovations – and as we do so we end up forgetting our cultural inheritance, our literature, our art, all the wrestling with angels that our ancestors have done for us. "The new must come from the old, for where else would you get it?" Culture both widens the scope of knowledge and offers ways of dealing with unsolvable problems. Widens the scope: There are other ways of knowing beyond the scientific method – imagine if you limited your actions to that which had been validated in peer reviewed journals. You wouldn't be able to get up in the morning (though it would also be impossible to justify staying in bed). "To define knowledge as merely empirical is to limit one's ability to know; it enfeebles one's ability to feel and think." (103) Art stands at the opposite end: "Works of art communicate feeling directly from mind to mind, with no intent to explain why this impact occurs. In this defining quality arts are the antithesis of science." (105) And I would say that's true of arts broadly defined – there's no need to explain the process by which a father teaches his son to throw a baseball, or to cook. On this Sunday a friend described the futility of exactitude in the art of pie-crust making, "it doesn't matter if it's six tablespoons of water or 12," she said, "what matters is getting it to the point where it feels right between your fingers." Adam Gopnik made the same point in last week's New Yorker. Ask the Australian Aborigines how they discovered the method for leaching the poison out of cycads that have killed people in Guam and Japan and Papua New Guinea, and they will tell you that it "comes from the dreaming." Clearly there are other forms of knowledge that we should take seriously, even if we don't understand them. Culture also offers ways of dealing with unsolvable problems like death and suffering. The poets offer better advice than the scientists here (remember Gary Greenberg's essay). Berry also hints at something else – that we might "make work our answer to despair." (I think he means that if we have a clearly directed moral purpose in the things we choose to do, that simply living and doing our thing another day is helping the common wealth).
I was struggling with this on the last book; Berry gives an elegant answer. It's a tool – like a hammer and in that capacity it's a wonderful thing. It's only when you begin to believe that you can only use the hammer for every job (the baby?) that you begin doing damage."Reductionism legitimately belongs to science; as an article of belief, it causes trouble."
Berry quotes the great biochemist Erwin Chargaff who compares culture to a tapestry, which scientists pull apart thread by thread until "even the memory of the design is lost." (75) It misses the point to pick out each thread and say, "Okay the results are in: 63.7 percent are red, 13.5 percent are golden…"
Looking at life strictly through the lens of evolution reduces living to survival. (110)
Scientific freedom
Scientific freedom, he says, demands scientific responsibility – the ability of culture to ask if new knowledge will really make our lives better. He goes further – releasing knowledge into the world is sometimes worse than not ever looking for it. (70, 77, 145) This is a hard one for me to accept. Suppose God handed you an apple shaped cask and said, "Inside are the materials that will lead you to new revelations about your biology, a great leap forward in the human understanding of how bodies work. But it also contains information that could be used to manufacture a virus that could cause immeasurable suffering if it fell into the wrong hands. Wanna open it?" It would be hard for me not to – and I'd use all the legitimizations – maybe the information with a little more work will allow us to vaccinate against the virus (ie science will solve the problems it causes), and maybe the sicknesses we cure with this will outweigh the cost (ie progress is always good – Berry talks about us losing the ability to subtract). Sure, some bells can't be unrung, some nuclei cannot be stitched back together, but restricting pursuit of knowledge is still tough for me. If we had the moral culture to deal with it I think we could cope with dangerous knowledge while letting scientists explore as they see the opportunity. The problem seems not to be the pursuit of knowledge, but the fact that application is driven by money. It takes a lot of money to get a new idea, a new drug, a new method of raising pigs, up and running. And once it's going its hard to say, well, the experiment failed, let's throw out this innovation. (There are some mechanisms for that in medicine…) "Suppose that the ultimate standard of our work were to be, not professionalism and profitability, but the health and durability of human and natural communities." (134) Innovation should be based on a local need and built for that particularity – it should ask "What will this do to our community?" (Which, I think is what Berry is getting at with the metric of propriety as well).
Other stuff
"The radii of knowledge have only pushed back–and enlarged–the circumference of mystery." (135) Which is why I love science! It opens the horizon of awe.
"We ought conscientiously to reduce our tolerance for ugliness." I love this. True progress shouldn't result in more ugliness. But it also can be read as elitist: What does it matter if my English manor becomes a coal mine if the net effect is hundreds of happier lives? I think though, that humans with good lives tend to make their surroundings beautiful. Ugliness is usually a sign of destitution and as such it can be an indicator for how we are doing with development.
"We should value familiarity over innovation." Go deep rather than wide.
"Science can teach us, and help us to resist death, but it can't teach us to prepare for death or die well."
Science applied only by a government or a corporation is tyrannical. "The use of science by or upon people who do not understand it is always potentially tyrannical, and it is always dangerous." Which explains the conspiracy theories in response to the vaccines. (148)
"Perhaps the most proper, and the most natural, response to our state of ignorance is not haste to increase the amount of available information, or even to increase knowledge, but rather a lively and convivial engagement with the issues of form, elegance, and kindness… the problem is not primarily one of mass [total knowledge]; it is a problem of form." Partake in the wholeness, in the holiness of a thing even if we don't understand it. (back to Unsettling for a moment, 103 heal, whole, wholesome, hale, hallow, holy.)


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In 2014, AAA responded to more than 17 million roadside assistance calls. The majority of these calls were for vehicle breakdown. Given the frequency of breakdowns, it helps to prepare for and know how to handle one.
How to Prepare an Emergency Car Care Kit
Put together a kit containing the items you might need during a breakdown. When it comes to supplies, it's better to be safe than sorry. Your car care kit should consist of a canvas bag or plastic tote bin and contain the following:
- First-aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Flares or reflective warning triangles
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Blankets
- Paper towels
- Drinking water
- Nonperishable snacks
- Any medication that you or one of your regular passengers may need
- If you live in an area that gets snow: a window scraper, small shovel and kitty litter.
You should also make alterations to your kit based on the season. In the wintertime, you may want to include extra garments, such as gloves and hats. Add extra water bottles, sunblock, instant cold packs and bug repellent in the summer.
What to Do if Your Vehicle Breaks Down on the Road
Your top priority when your vehicle breaks down is to get it to the safest position possible. From there, you can signal for help. If you're capable of making repairs you can also do that.
Move your vehicle to a safe location. Vehicle breakdowns can be terrifying and dangerous. Without warning, your vehicle's engine may stop. Power steering and anti-lock brakes may stop as well. If your vehicle breaks down, you should try to coast over to the right shoulder. Avoid using your brakes unless you're going to hit an object. You will need as much momentum as you can get to stop your vehicle in the safest place possible. Follow the same rules of the road that you would if you were changing lanes. Use your turn signals and check your mirrors. Only move into the left shoulder as a last resort.
If possible, pull over on a straight part of the road or before a curve. Avoid stopping your car after a curve. This will make it more difficult for cars to see you, for you to see cars, and for service vehicles to stop and help you. Once your vehicles come to a complete stop, put your car in park and engage the e-brake. If you stop your vehicle on the shoulder, turn your steering wheel as far as possible away from traffic. Doing this can help prevent you from rolling into traffic if you're hit from behind.
It's okay to stay in your current lane if you're not able to change lanes when your vehicle breaks down. Again, resist the urge to hit your brakes unless you're going to collide with another vehicle. Allow yourself to coast until you have come to a stop. Then put your car in park and pull up on the e-brake.
Only make the repairs you feel comfortable making. Making repairs on your broken-down vehicle is a judgment call that only you can make. You shouldn't make this call lightly. You need to assess the situation that you're in to determine if you should get out of your vehicle. If your vehicle has broken down on the highway you may not want to get out of your vehicle. If your vehicle has broken down in a residential or low traffic area, it may be safe to get out. But only get out if there's good reason.
You should also consider how comfortable you are with making repairs on your vehicle. If you're not used to changing your tires in your garage then you shouldn't change them on a busy highway. Also, don't make repairs on the side of your vehicle that is exposed to traffic.
Busy roads and highways are the worst places to make vehicle repairs. Fortunately, though, they are the most traveled by tow trucks and emergency services. If your vehicle breaks down in a high-traffic road, it's likely that a police officer will soon spot you. The officer should be able to help you or direct traffic around your vehicle while you make repairs.
Get assistance. It's important that you let other drivers know that your vehicle has broken down. Doing this can help them avoid hitting your vehicle and also help you get assistance. If your cell phone is available, contact a roadside service such as AAA, or the police department. Also, be sure to hang a white cloth out a window that is facing traffic and turn your hazard lights on.
Customers of The Hartford with towing and labor coverage can call RESCUE 1-800® Emergency Road Service – offering access to a network of 40,000 towing services countrywide – so help is nearby any time of the day or night, 365 days a year.
Hold tight. You can run the heater in your car as long as you know the tailpipe is not obstructed. There's a chance that accumulations could be blocking the tailpipe if you break down in heavy snow. In this situation, turning on your heater could result in carbon monoxide poisoning. If you can safely get out of your car, use the shovel in your emergency car care kit to clear the area behind the tailpipe. You should also bundle up immediately with as many layers as you can get. Do this even if it feels too warm because your car can quickly lose heat. It's easier for you to warm up the layers if there is still heat in the car than it is if the cabin has become cold.
If your car breaks down in the summertime you can roll the windows up and turn on the air conditioning. This should help you and your passengers stay comfortable. If you do roll your windows down, use the sunblock and bug repellent from your emergency car care kit.
In both seasons, make sure that you leave enough gas in your tank to be able to drive once your vehicle is repaired. Also, never go to sleep in your car with the engine running.
Vehicle break downs can be scary because they're often unexpected. But if you prepare for a breakdown, it's no longer unexpected—it's just inconvenient. By following these steps, you can help stay safe during a breakdown and get back on the road sooner.
KEEP READING: 6 Things You Need to Know About Rental Cars and Insurance

subset: commoncrawl


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BEIRUT, Oct 21 (Reuters) - Lebanon's government approved a 2020 budget envisaging a deficit of 0.6% of gross domestic product, with banks set to participate in the deficit-reduction through an amount of 5.1 trillion Lebanese pounds ($3.4 billion), Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said on Monday.
The government also approved a wider set of reforms including halving the salaries of members of parliament and ministers, Hariri said. (Reporting by Beirut Bureau; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.


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It's a good time to revisit a report I did for CBS News Sunday Morning Jan. 13, 2013 about the fear FBI and Border Patrol agents express: that terrorists can easily slip in across the southern U.S. border.
...But investigators say what worries them even more is the serious threat to national security -- the fear that terrorists could slip in.
A new Congressional report finds Mexican cartels are developing "growing collaborations" with terrorist organizations linked to Iran and Hezbollah.
From 2006-2011, along the Southwest border, the Border Patrol apprehended 1,918 illegal immigrants from 35 countries designated as states that could harm the U.S. with terrorism.
Which makes this taped confession all the more chilling: the corrupt officer Alarid admits helping smuggle in a hundred people.
Alarid: "Ain't nobody that I know of that's a bin Laden or something."
FBI Agent Reed: "Well, I'm glad to hear that."
"The problem is that, because no inspection's taking place, they really have no way of knowing what's in the vehicles," said Reed. "They don't know who they're letting into the country. And that unknown is what scares us all."
(watch the entire report)


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Having already exhausted many of the non-wired bra options in my size, the one I really wanted to try was the Triumph Doreen. It's a classic bra which is often associated with older ladies but I have long wondered if it would be comfortable and supportive enough for my large breasts as a sleep/house bra.
Image courtesy of Simply Be
I ordered the bra from Simply Be as part of a larger order of a range of items. It was on offer – save £5 when you buy two – and I do love a bargain!
I went for a 34K in Tea Rose and a 36K in White to see how the sizes compared.
This bra had everything I was looking for in a sleep/house bra. It was super comfortable, the wide, fully-adjustable straps were brilliant and the cups felt supportive. It takes some pretty serious engineering to support large boobs and I feel Triumph have done a great job with the Doreen.
The Tea Rose was a very beautiful dark dusky pink shade – very feminine and attractive. The White was of course a great basic but I think I preferred the former. It would be great if more colours were available in these large cups but at the moment these are the only two offered in K as far as I am aware.
The tops of the cups came up very high on me but I guess they have to in order to fully encompass the whole of my breasts. This bra is not for aesthetic purposes but I wonder if having so much of my chest covered would make me hot/uncomfortable as I am not used to it.
I found the cups of the Doreen made my breasts VERY pointy (I couldn't decide if I liked this look or not – it's very retro!) and pushed them east/west somewhat. Again, this is perhaps not an issue for a bra I will only ever wear around the house but having my breasts to the side does restrict my arm movement and I am not sure how it would feel when lying on my side in bed!
My breasts also touched in the middle between the cups – this is something I have experienced with every non-wired bra I have tried so far and am not sure if this is supposed to happen…?
There were pros and cons for both sizes. Unfortunately the band was too big in both and Doreen is not available in a band below 34 so if I decide to go for this one it will be with the compromise of a slightly loose band. Maybe that's not the end of the world for a sleep/house bra? The 36K fit me much better in the cup but the band still felt big on the tightest hooks.
As with all the bras I try, I have added my measurements to the Bratabase website. DO make sure you add your bras too in order to help others work out what bras would and wouldn't suit/fit them.
In an ideal world, I would LOVE this bra if it came in a 32L. Sadly it doesn't so I am left with the decision whether to keep the 34K or to continue my search. What do you think?
You can read my other reviews of the soft cup bras I've tried here:
A range of non-wired bras from Fashion World
Emma Jane Non-Wired Maternity Bra
Royce Impact Free Non-Wired Sports Bra
And there's more to come soon so stay tuned!


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Courtney Love used heroin while pregnant
Courtney Love used heroin while pregnant.
The 50-year-old star took the Class A substance while she was expecting her and the late singer Kurt Cobain's daughter Frances Cobain, who is now 22, but she was confident doing the drug wouldn't harm her unborn child.
Speaking in documentary film 'Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck', Courtney says: ''I used it once then stopped. I knew she would be fine.''
The documentary tells the story of the Nirvana frontman's early years up until his success and downfall with the grunge group as well the struggles Kurt - who committed suicide in 1994 - had with becoming a parent.
Speaking about Frances, he says in archive footage: ''I don't want her to be screwed up.''
The singer also discusses his quest to be a better father than his dad Donald, who re-married after splitting from the star's mother Wendy, much to the rocker's dismay.
He says: ''My father and I are very different people, I am capable of a lot more affection than he is.''
While there is no drug use shown in the film, Courtney claims her late husband just wanted to ''stay in their apartment, do heroin and paint'' when he decided he had had enough of the limelight with Nirvana.
Courtney and Frances were seen in public together for the first time in five years on Saturday at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival, where they embraced each other on the red carpet before watching the documentary.
Daily Celebrity Watch


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Livio Felluga - Sharis 2020Italian White Wine
Next in stock 17th Oct 2022
Country of OriginItaly
Producer Information
Nutritional InformationVegetarian
Key Information
- AppellationVenezia Giulia IGT
- BrandLivio Felluga
- RegionFriuli-Venezia Giulia
Grape Information
Other Information
- Food MatchPoultry
- Food MatchSoft Cheeses
- Grape TypeChardonnay
- Grape TypeRibolla Gialla
- Quality DesignationIGT
- Vintage2020
- WinemakerAndrea Felluga & Stefano Chiocci
Bright yellow with golden reflections. Intense floral perfumes reminiscent of summer exude from the glass.
Orange blossom, jasmine and lily of the valley mingle with citron, evergreen notes and a fresh herbaceous mallow character.
The lively palate is captivating, savoury and persistent.
With hints of white cherries and juicy yellow plums, 'Sharis' is smooth through the finish.
6 from Livio Felluga
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Sony Xperia Z is quite a popular device of 2013 and also it was the most sold mobile of 2013 because of its great specifications and hardware and also it was a budget smartphone. And Sony is still updating its Xperia series to the latest Android 6.0 Marshmallow, but the inquisitive ones can get the new software right away.
Recently, senior XDA member, Chippa_a, shared an official build of Resurrection Remix OS v.6.1.0 for the first Xperia Z bearing model yuga. The Resurrection Remix custom firmware upgrades the Xperia Z to Android Oreo 8.0 from the older Android 6.0 Marshmallow.
Resurrection ROM has been around for a while now and has made a name for itself over the years. The ROM is usually stable and performs well on a number of different devices. The Resurrection ROM for the Sony Xperia Z is the same deal.
It is a stable build based on Android 8.1 Oreo and works well on the device. It is based in Lineage and thus comes with a lot of tweaks regarding the battery life and performance of the device. A lot of features and mods are taken from a number of different ROMs to make this a reality. It provides exceptional performance without taking a toll on the battery timings.
How To Install Resurrection Remix Android Oreo ROM On Sony Xperia Z
- Download Android 8.1 Resurrection Remix custom ROM Xperia Z and Google Apps 8.1 Nougat for Xperia Z.
- Power off the phone and Wait a few seconds and then Press "Volume Down key +Power Key" for 5 Sec then release at the same time for about 3, or 4 seconds.Release the buttons.
- Once the phone enters into TWRP Recovery, perform a full data wipe task by Select "Wipe" from the main menu of the TWRP recovery and then select "Swipe to factory reset" option on the bottom of the screen.
- Return to the main TWRP menu and choose Install. Browse and select the RR-O-v6.1.0-20180715-yuga-Official.zip file which you copied earlier to your phone's SD card in the second step. Swipe to Install/Flash in order to begin the flashing process.
- Repeat the above step for the Gapps zip file as well and install it on your phone.
- Once both the Gapps and Resurrection Remix OS ROM are installed, and then select "Reboot System" button.
If you have any questions about the installation process, the nature of the ROMs listed here, or any other suggestion, let us know in the comments. We always love and appreciate your input.


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Gregory DelGenio
Partner and Chief Revenue Officer
When we experience anxiety and burnout in our professions, it's easy to convince ourselves that the stress is necessary, or even a productive mechanism for achieving our goals. We suppress and even rationalize stress by imagining an ideal future when the dust settles, and our hard work propels itself with its own momentum. Then, it will all have been worth it, right? The problem with this train of thought is that burnout and bad habits are hard to unlearn. This is especially true when these habits are fostered by company policies that can compound the ordinary stressors of daily life.
What if an investment in employee trust and flexibility could mitigate these stressors? When life circumstances collide – say, a DMV visit, a sick child, or even a chance to spend extra family time over breakfast instead of attempting to beat the morning rush hour –stress can be exacerbated in ways that have nothing to do with your team optimizing their performance in the office.
This is why here at Plative, we are laser-focused on building a company culture that supports peace of mind wherever possible. We are well-aware of the fact that our team is constantly faced with client deadlines, rigorous travel, technical problem-solving, and other high pressure challenges. In our continued effort to improve well-being, we created our #WorkFromAnywhere initiative, which encourages our employees to set up shop from anywhere they are able to work effectively. No commuting or micromanagement required, just complete trust for our people and their commitment to do the best work of their lives.
Here are some positive impacts of the #WorkFromAnywhere policy that we've seen since implementing it:
If you're an employee of a company that you wish would demonstrate deeper trust in their employees by implementing policies like #WorkFromAnywhere, I'd urge you to take a look at our open roles!
How Plative Combats Burnout | #WorkFromAnywhere


text:
Knowledge Networking Portal for Sustainable & Responsible Tourism
"Sustainable Tourism Certification Worldwide", 50 labels 2014, in English - German - French - Spanish
In 2014 the "Guide through the Label Jungle" (ECOTRANS, NFI, AKTE, Tourism Watch) provided information on the development of sustainable tourism certification and its market role, presenting 20 leading labels and a compiled list of 30 additional labels from all global regions:
10,000 print copies have been disseminated at tourism fairs and other events.
As a response to the growing interest from tour operators, consumers associations and NGOs, ECOTRANS has updated and expanded the list to 50 international and national certification programmes for hotels, destinations or tour operators.
The research and dissemination is supported by TUI, DER Touristik, TourCert, SRV, VKI, TravelMotion, NFI, Tourism Watch and AKTE. The results are now available for own use and for dissemination as 2 pages tables: "Sustainable Tourism Certification Worldwide" in English - German - French - Spanish
For interested businesses and tourism professionals, tour operators and travel agents, journalists and marketing services, destinations and administration bodies, NGOs, teachers and trainers, students, travellers ... each of the 50 certificates is linked with its detailed description on DestiNet.
To support the visibility and market access of sustainable tourism the labels now can link the locations of their certified businesses and services with the independent global Green Market Place on DestiNet.
For further information please contact: email@example.com
|Target group(s)
|Destinations , Businesses , Travellers , Education, Research, Consultancy , NGOs, Partnerships, Networks , Governments & Administrations
|Certification & Marketing , Knowledge Networking, Training and Education


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17 Free spins på spilleautomat Super Nudge 6000.
Til Betsson Casino
Information from Betsson
Here is how your players can claim their free spins:
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text:
Today is the day that I wait for all year long. The day that I count down to, hold in high regards and count as my very favorite holiday. It is of course, Halloween.
Today, although it is known by that name here in the States, it is known by a far older, more sacred name. Today is Samhain (pronounced Sow-en). So today, I would like to explain what this holiday actually means.
Mainstream media has shown that Halloween is a holiday about candy, costumes and blood and gore. In fact, some of the first images we are taught to associate with this holiday are candy corn, green bumpy skinned witches and little red devils with red plastic pitchforks. We see the Wicked Witch of the West, evil and cackling. We see the TV shows like Salem and American Horror Story which perpetuate the stereotypes. We see the Sanderson sisters, the Bennett line, people who could be just scary enough or sexy enough to fit the ticket. There is pumpkin carving, apple cider and a whole gambit of goblins, ghosts and ghouls.
What I know this holiday to be is a new year celebration. It is an ending of the harvest season and the beginning of the earth's slumber. Soon enough, the skies will turn grey and little diamonds will fall from the sky, placing all things green in a state of rest. But more than that, it is a time of rememberance. Those who have been lost to this earth, those who have left lasting impressions on their posterity. It is a time to honor your ancestors and reimmerse yourself in becoming the best person you can be. Samhain is a time of reverence and recollection, as well as a time to prepare for the upcoming year. It is a time that the veil is open.
But what do I mean by that? What veil? As I mentioned earlier, it is a time for thankfulness and ancestor rememberance. But the thing is, it is also a time to connect with that ancestral line. Personally, I offer my ancestors a memorial. I pull out some potatoes, some apples and some wine and leave a little offering, honoring their spirits (I'm Russo-Irish, and wine is a nice compromise for the English blood within). The thing is, I know that I am a product of their choices. Their choices to immigrate to America, their choices to work hard and produce the best life they could for their children, and thusly me. I am incredibly proud that my grandfather was a first generation American. I honor those decisions and am thankful for their bravery. It is this day that is believed to be the closest the spiritual realm can come to the physical one, a day when ancestors can communicate with us. I find this incredibly comforting.
Samhain is a celtic holiday and there is an astounding history there within. And although I could go on and on about the history and the meaning, I want to bring in an explanation about the whole concept. I think it provides a great history and a readable explanation.
Anyway, the important message I want to share is that there are plenty of people out in the great wide world who do not see this holiday as a joke, a big Trick-or-Treat bonanza that involves werewolves and vampires and children-eating-green-skinned-witches. We see this as a holy day, a day to honor those who came before us and a day to enable a precious connection between who we are and who we have become. So the next time you think about taking your kids out in a costume, just remember that although Hollywood may have given you the idea that "sexy" costumes and stereotypical symbolism is acceptable, perhaps there is another way of thinking.
Have a wonderful Halloween, All Hallow's Eve, Samhain (Beltane if you are in the Southern Hemisphere) and the wide plethora of holidays coming up: All Saint's Day, All Soul's Day and Dia de Los Muertos (plus any I may have forgotten).


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Choosing a student loan can be as complex as committing to a college major. Though you won't receive a fancy diploma once you sign a student loan agreement, you will be carrying it around with you for years to come. In fact, about 65% of college students graduate with student loan debt. To ease a bit of that obligation, the best student loan will offer a low-interest rate, flexible repayment options, and a few rewards. We used our in-house analysis system, SimpleScore, to rate the best student loans of 2020 on rates, fees, loan amounts, transparency and extra perks.
Lending Partner
Min. Loan
Fixed APR
Eligible Degrees
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The best student loans of 2021
The best student loans at a glance
|Fixed APR
|Variable APR
|Loan Amount
|Discover, Member FDIC
|100% of the certified costs of attendance
|100% of the costs of attendance
|Sallie Mae
|100% of the costs of attendance
|100% of the costs of attendance
|100% of the certified costs of attendance
|100% of the certified costs of attendance
|PNC Bank
|Up to $225K
|College Ave
|100% of the certified costs of attendance
*Rates accurate as of January 2021 and exclude autopay rate discounts (excluding Discover)
Best for cashback rewards – Discover, Member FDIC
Discover can help you pave the way to higher education with great rates, no fees, and enticing rewards.
Most probably know Discover for its credit cards and banking options, but the company also offers student loans. We found Discover's online resources and account management seamless. You can find educational resources and calculators to arm yourself with everything involved in taking on a loan, and then apply in just a few minutes.
Discover typically offers a wide range of fixed and variable rates, and the loan can fund 100% of your certified school costs. If you receive a 3.0 GPA or higher during the term you took the loan out for, you can qualify for a 1% cash reward. You can also receive a 0.25% lower interest rate if you enable autopay on your monthly payments. To top it off, Discover has no application, origination or late payment fees.
If you don't have the best credit score, and neither does your cosigner, you might have a hard time qualifying for a Discover student loan.
In the News
Discover recently settled a student loan case with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and is now ordered to pay $35 million for customer redress and civil money penalties. CFPB opened the case when it was found that Discover was misquoting the minimum amount due, illegal debt collection and incorrect tax information that Discover customers needed to file for benefits. Discover cancelled over 14,000 payments without informing customers and withdrew payments from 17,000 others.
1. Lowest APRs shown for Discover Student Loans are available for the most creditworthy applicants for undergraduate loans and include a 0.25% interest rate reduction while enrolled in automatic payments.
2. Lowest APRs shown are available for the most creditworthy applicants for undergraduate loans and include a 0.25% interest rate reduction while enrolled in automatic payments. The interest rate ranges represent the lowest and highest interest rates offered on Discover student loans, including Undergraduate. The fixed interest rate is set at the time of application and does not change during the life of the loan. The variable interest rate is calculated based on the 3-Month LIBOR index plus the applicable margin percentage. For variable interest rate loans, the 3-Month LIBOR is 0.250% as of January 1, 2021. Discover Student Loans may adjust the rate quarterly on each January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1 (the "interest rate change date"), based on the 3-Month LIBOR Index, published in the Money Rates section of the Wall Street Journal 15 days prior to the interest rate change date, rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of one percent (0.125% or 0.00125). This may cause the monthly payments to increase, the number of payments to increase or both. Our lowest APR is only available to customers with the best credit and other factors. Your APR will be determined after you apply. It will be based on your credit history, which repayment option you choose and other factors, including your cosigner's credit history (if applicable). Learn more about Discover Student Loans interest rates at DiscoverStudentLoans.com/Rates.
Best for a lender network – LendKey
LendKey is the buffet of student loans, displaying a variety of options from small venders and regional lenders. There's something for everyone.
LendKey acts as a middle man and account manager that connects you to student loans from non-profit lenders, regional banks and credit unions. The student loans available may offer lower interest rates and better terms than a larger bank. And because of this network model, you may be more likely to find something that fits your specific portfolio and credit history. LendKey also allows you to see if you'll qualify and what rates are available without a hard credit check.
If the loan you're matched with is a credit union, there may be a fee for joining that credit union, hopefully, countered by lower rates. You can make payments and manage the loan through LendKey, especially enticing if the lender has a clunky online interface. The specific pros and cons of student loans offered by LendKey will vary depending on the lender or bank you're matched with.
In the News
LendKey launched a number of diversity initiatives at the end of 2020 to combat social injustice and racial inequality. LendKey's efforts include the Diversity Resource Center, ongoing racial injustice discussions and a new recruiting process to help hire a group of diverse applicants.
Eligibility for federal, state and university funded financial aid is determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). All students are strongly encouraged to apply for federal aid by completing the FAFSA, which can be obtained online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
Students can check their eligibility for a private student loan with LendKey and our network of private student loan lenders by starting a student loan application.
Best for credit score checks – Sallie Mae
Sallie Mae is the Hufflepuff of student loans; it's open to any student and is ready to accommodate your needs and your educational timeline.
Sallie Mae originated as a federal student loan lender but has since transitioned to offer private student loans. Its most unique feature is flexibility around your student status. Sallie Mae is one of the few lenders that will offer loans to part-time students. Even if you're picking up a few classes over the summer or taking night classes, you can qualify for a student loan. This benefit also applies to study abroad programs, professional certification courses and foreign schools.
There are a few perks to borrowing from Sallie Mae: a free quarterly FICO credit report, four months of free Chegg Study (a homework and textbook service) and interest-only payments for 12 months after graduation. Unfortunately, checking to see if you qualify and what rate you'll receive requires a hard credit check.
In the News
Sallie Mae recently donated $50,000 to Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Delaware. The donation will help support the program amid the COVID-19 pandemic with initiatives including one-on-one guidance, mentorship and academic assistance.
Sallie Mae Disclosure: 1. This information is for undergraduate students attending participating degree-granting schools. Borrowers must be U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents if the school is located outside of the United states. Non- U.S. citizen borrowers who reside in the U.S. are eligible with a creditworthy cosigner (who must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident) and are required to provide an unexpired government-issued photo ID to verify identity. Applications are subject to a requested minimum loan amount of $1000. Currently credit and other eligibility criteria apply. 2. This repayment example is based on a typical Smart Option Student Loan made to a freshman borrower who chooses a fixed rate and the Fixed Repayment Option for a $10,000 loan, with two disbursements, and a 8.51% fixed APR. It works out to 51 payments of $25.00, 179 payments of $124.69 and one payment of $66.91, for a Total Loan Cost of $23,661.42. 3. Although we do not charge you a penalty or fee if you prepay your loan, any prepayment will be applied as provided in your promissory note: first to Unpaid Fees and costs, then to Unpaid Interest, and then to Current Principal.
Best for referral bonuses – CommonBond
You can give a little back to the world with your CommonBond loan, and maybe get something in return for selling your friends on it.
If you connect with a vast network of students, you can earn $200 towards your CommonBond loan for referring them to also sign up for a loan. Your student loan also contributes to the education of children in a developing country — for every student loan issued, CommonBond covers the cost of a child's education.
One of CommonBond's unique resources is a Money Mentor, a person who can give you free financial advice via text message. They can advise you on your budget, career path, credit-building and help find internship opportunities.
Oddly, loans are not available with CommonBond in Nevada and Mississippi. For most borrowers, a cosigner will be required.
In the News
In 2020, CommonBond announced SmartCash™ to help customers with refinancing while debuting a cash experience. CommonBond now lets borrowers refinance student loans and open a checking account to bring student loan debt management and money management together.
Best mobile app – Earnest
There's nothing more earnest than second chances, especially for missed payments. So, give this lender a try, we guarantee it'll be a smooth ride.
Earnest impresses with low APR rates, a 9-month grace period for deferment, no fees and a 0.25% discount for setting up autopay. You can even skip one payment per year. On Earnest's website, you can verify your eligibility in just two minutes and scroll through your options — no hard credit check required. If you like the interest rates they offer, you can choose between four repayment plans.
The lender's digital interfaces are above and beyond the competition, with a seamless website experience and feature-packed mobile app. Earnest has a blog full of resources if you have any questions about the student loan process or finances.
To qualify for a student loan with Earnest, you (or your cosigner) will need a credit score of at least 650 and no history of bankruptcy.
In the News
Earnest's main focus is helping customers during the COVID-19 pandemic with student loan relief to ease financial burdens. It offers a number of programs for assistance including Short-Term Only Interest Program and the Short-Term Coronavirus Forbearance Program.
Best for member perks – SoFi
SoFi's student loan options are out of this world. But you'll need a ticket to their planet.
SoFi is famous for its student loan refinancing, as the first lender to refinance private and federal student loans into one package. Like many of our other favorite lenders, SoFi gives a 0.25% discount for autopay, no fees and an online application. SoFi members also receive financial planning advice, career services and invitations to networking events.
At some point, SoFi will check with your school to verify you have satisfactory academic progress (they don't specify what that looks like), and it could affect your eligibility for borrowing money. This might mean a specific GPA, graduation timeline or a percentage of completed credits.
In the News
SoFi is looking to go public soon and has invited investors into its mortgage lending side of the business. The decision to go public puts SoFi at over $8.6 billion in value and helps continue its efforts to help customers become financially independent.
UNDERGRADUATE LOANS: Fixed rates from 4.23% to 11.76% annual percentage rate ("APR") (with autopay), variable rates from 1.90% to 11.66% APR (with autopay). GRADUATE LOANS: Fixed rates from 4.13% to 11.83% APR (with autopay), variable rates from 1.80% to 11.73% APR (with autopay). MBA AND LAW SCHOOL LOANS: Fixed rates from 4.11% to 11.81% APR (with autopay), variable rates from 1.78% to 11.72% APR (with autopay). PARENT LOANS: Fixed rates from 4.23% to 11.26% APR (with autopay), variable rates from 1.90% to 11.16% APR (with autopay). For variable rate loans, the variable interest rate is derived from the one-month LIBOR rate plus a margin and your APR may increase after origination if the LIBOR increases. Changes in the one-month LIBOR rate may cause your monthly payment to increase or decrease. Interest rates for variable rate loans are capped at 13.95%, unless required to be lower to comply with applicable law. Lowest rates are reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. If approved for a loan, the interest rate offered will depend on your creditworthiness, the repayment option you select, the term and amount of the loan and other factors, and will be within the ranges of rates listed above. The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly principal and interest payments by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. The benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. Information current as of 07/10/2020. Enrolling in autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi. SoFi Lending Corp., licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Financing Law License No. 6054612. NMLS #1121636 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).
Best for high rate discount – PNC Bank
PNC Bank is a bit old school compared to our other recommendations, but it's worth considering if you're a part-time student.
PNC Bank is one of the few lenders that will offer student loans to part-time students. You'll also get double the usual discount for enrolling in auto-pay, 0.50%. After four years of timely payments, you can apply to release the cosigner and be solely responsible for the loan.
The PNC Bank website is a bit barebones, and that can make it hard to compare your options. You won't find an abundance of online resources or extensive FAQ sections, and will often be directed to call the helpline for detailed information. PNC Bank also has the highest starting rate for variable interest.
In the News
PNC Bank recently sued Plaid, inc. over several claims including trademark copywriting, trademark infringement and false advertising. PNC also claims that its logo and name are being used on Plaid's mobile app. PNC Bank is seeking $2 million in statutory damages.
Best for flexible payment terms – College Ave
If getting a student loan is like going for ice cream, College Ave is the hip froyo spot. You get to customize what you're buying and get some unique toppings like a few fees and a quick application.
College Ave gives borrowers a few different ways to customize their experience. You can choose between four repayment options and four different loan term lengths. There are options to make small payments while still in school, or you can defer. The specific deferment policy is considered on a case-by-case basis. While this could result in a longer post-graduation timeline if your financial situation is sticky, it could also mean there's no guarantee of a deferment period. Most students are offered six months.
Another upside is that you can check your potential rates and terms without impacting your credit with College Ave's super-quick prequalify application. Part-time students can also apply for a student loan. Like SoFi, College Ave will verify satisfactory academic progress as a qualification to borrow.
In the News
College Ave is helping students amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It is willing to offer assistance for borrowers that are unable to pay or need a lower payment at this time due to financial hardship. Customers must call for assistance, as requests cannot be fulfilled via email.
*College Ave Student Loans products are made available through either Firstrust Bank, member FDIC or M.Y. Safra Bank, FSB, member FDIC. All loans are subject to individual approval and adherence to underwriting guidelines. Program restrictions, other terms, and conditions apply.
As certified by your school and less any other financial aid you might receive. Minimum $1,000.
The 0.25% auto-pay interest rate reduction applies as long as a valid bank account is designated for required monthly payments. Variable rates may increase after consummation.
Information advertised valid as of 12/14/2020. Variable interest rates may increase after consummation. Lowest advertised rates require selection of full principal and interest payments with the shortest available loan term.
What is a student loan?
Student loans are a sum of money lent to students for funding education and associated costs. Unlike scholarships or grants, this money is paid back (with interest) over a set amount of time. There are federal student loans available from the government depending on your financial need, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal loans typically don't require a credit check nor a cosigner.
Private student loans are available through banks, credit unions and other financial institutions. This type of student loan does require a credit check and often a cosigner. Interest rates will be varied, and it's best to shop around for a low rate.
What are private student loans?
Private student loans are offered by organizations like banks and credit unions. Unlike federal student loans that have terms and conditions set by federal law, private entities can set their own terms. In general, private loans usually aren't as flexible as federal loans.
With private student loans, your interest rates can be either variable or fixed, and you usually need higher credit to qualify for low interest rates. Private loans are a good option for students who might be looking for larger loan amounts and already have good or excellent credit. If you have the right qualifications, a private loan may have a lower interest rate while offering a bigger loan.
How to get a student loan with no credit
Many students haven't had the opportunity to build credit yet, making it more difficult to secure private loans. Lenders usually rely on credit reports to determine how much risk you'll have as a borrower. Borrowers with bad credit who haven't paid other loans on time are subject to higher interest rates and usually have fewer loan options. Luckily, you still have options if you're trying to get a loan without a credit history.
As a student, you can ask a parent or guardian to become a cosigner for a loan. A bank or other private lender will look at the cosigner's credit history to determine your loan options and interest rates. A cosigner takes on the responsibility of the loan with you, so they'll be subject to payment if you aren't able to pay back the loan on your own.
You can also consider lenders that offer personal loans for users without credit or who have bad credit histories. If you already have debt, consider a consolidation loan as well to help make your payments easier to manage.
[Read: Multiple Personal Loans and Your Credit Score]
How do student loans work?
The student loan process is typically pretty straightforward — especially compared to other financial undertakings. You apply online a few months before your school year commences. The money is sent to your school during the first few weeks. Any amount remaining after the tuition and fees is sent to you (ideally used for books, rent, associated costs of attending the university.)
Your repayment plan will depend on the loan you chose. You might pay small amounts while still in school or defer payments until after you've graduated, usually with a grace period of six months to a year. That monthly repayment will continue until the loan is paid off.
Loan terms and limits
A loan term is the length of time the borrower has to repay the loan with monthly payments. For student loans, loan terms range from 5-15 years. You can often choose the loan terms, but it will depend on your lender.
Loan limits refer to the amount of money you borrow. Some lenders have minimum and maximum amounts, while others may cover 100% of attendance costs.
Loan minimums: The minimum amount of money you can borrow. Most lenders require a minimum loan amount of around $1,000 – $5,000.
Loan maximums: The maximum amount of money you can borrow. Most lenders will let you borrow 100% of the cost of attendance, while others may have a maximum amount limiting the total you can borrow. The limit is usually around $200,000, which will likely cover 100% of costs, depending on the education.
Loan rates
A loan rate is the percentage of interest that accumulates over the lifetime of the loan. When getting a student loan, lenders offer a choice between fixed or variable interest rates.
Fixed-rate loans: The interest rate will remain the same for the entire repayment period. Fixed loan rates can be a bit higher in range than variable, but depending on your credit score (and your cosigner's credit score), the fixed rate you're quoted could be low.
Variable-rate loans: The interest rate will fluctuate during the loan period as market interest rates change. The starting rates are often lower than fixed rates, but that rate will vary and may be higher at times than the fixed rate you're quoted.
Types of student loans
There are a few different types of student loans, mostly depending on the education you're pursuing.
- Undergraduate student loans. Typically used for pursuing a bachelor's degree. Loan rates are pretty average, and term lengths are often flexible.
- Graduate or professional school loans. For postgraduate education. Some lenders will offer different loans and rates depending on the specialty — medical school, law school, MBA program, etc. Graduate loans often have lower rates and higher maximum loan amounts than undergraduate student loans.
- Community college or technical training loans. Not every lender will offer loans for community college, technical training or part time enrollments. Some lenders have higher loan rates for this level of education than loans for a bachelor's degree. Other lenders will let you take out a traditional undergraduate loan for community college.
- Parent loans. A parent will take out a loan to help pay for their student's education. This is a step further than cosigning on a loan, and the parent is solely responsible for the loan's repayment. The loan will have no impact on the student's credit (positive or negative). Loan rates are often the same as those for other student loans, but there are fewer repayment and loan term options.
Getting a student loan with a cosigner
To get a student loan with a cosigner, all you need to do is find someone you trust who has a good or excellent credit score. Keep in mind that your cosigner will have to take on the loan debt if you aren't able to pay off the loan. For 17- to 18-year-old students, parents and guardians are usually the best options for cosigners. Most private institutions also have requirements for cosigners, such as established credit history, legal age and citizenship. Once you find a responsible cosigner, follow the steps below:
- Gather necessary documents such as income information, Social Security numbers and personal contact information.
- Fill out one loan application together. You don't need to apply separately if you have a cosigner, the two of you can apply together on one application with most lenders. If your cosigner doesn't live with you or near you, the lender will most likely send your cosigner a link via email to complete their portion of the application.
- Once the application is approved, sign the final loan documents together. These documents will need both the primary applicant's and cosigner's signatures.
- Have a conversation about the payment schedule. Remember, while the student is responsible for the loan, the cosigner is as well.
[Read: How to Take Out Student Loans Without a Cosigner]
Getting a student loan without a cosigner
If you don't have a viable cosigner, you still have some options for obtaining a student loan. While personal loan options and student loans require some form of credit history, it's still possible to get a student loan with no credit and no cosigner. First, exhaust all federal student loan options and funding.
If you do have a good credit history or the student loan lender doesn't require extensive credit histories, you can still apply for a student loan without a cosigner. Each lender will have different requirements, so you'll still need to apply and see which institutions will offer a loan with a decent interest rate. To obtain a student loan without a cosigner, follow these steps:
- If you don't have credit, apply for a federal loan through the FAFSA application online. Next, apply for scholarships and grants that apply to your situation. Try to pursue all forms of federal funding before turning to private student loan lenders.
- Gather a list of lenders that don't require cosigners and check your rates with each one. Remember, checking your rate won't affect your credit score — these are only soft credit checks.
- Compare your loan options, paying special attention to the amounts, interest rates and loan terms before choosing the loan that works for your needs.
- Gather the documents you'll need for loan applications. This includes Social Security number, employment information and contact information.
- Once approved for a loan, continue with the application. This will involve a hard credit check, which will temporarily lower your credit score. Once your loan offer is accepted, you can sign the final documents. Keep in mind that you are the sole person responsible for this loan and it's your credit score and finances at risk if you fail to pay back the loan in a timely manner.
How to apply for a student loan
Applying for a student loan is often a quick process. Before you begin, you'll need your Social Security number (SSN), banking information, employment and income information, your school's information and an estimate of the amount you'll need to borrow. If you have a cosigner, they'll need to collect the same information.
On the lender's website, the process typically goes like this:
- Set up an account using an email address, user ID or password
- Follow the website prompts to provide personal information, including name, date of birth, home address and Social Security number
- Enter the requested financial information, such as monthly income
- Answer verification questions
- Choose the loan type and repayment terms
- Provide your co-signer's information and financials
Once you apply, you'll receive an answer in a matter of minutes. Make sure you understand the application before you apply. Most student loan companies will let you prequalify for a loan and provide you the interest rate and terms without a hard pull on your credit, so you can go with the offer or pass. But some other lenders will only tell you what you're approved for after the loan application process is completed, and they've done a hard pull on your credit score.
How to choose the best student loan for you
- Calculate the amount you'll need to borrow. You'll need this information to apply for loans.
- Apply for FAFSA. You'll want to compare all the options available to you, private and federal.
- Submit several applications to private lenders and compare the interest rates (variable and fixed), fees, term lengths, repayment options and rewards.
- Decide on the best loan options for you and your financial situation.
Refinancing student loans
There are times when your student loan debt amounts to more than you can afford. If you're paying student loans with high-interest rates and would like to benefit from a lower-interest offer, refinancing your student loan may be the answer. Even if you only have a small amount of student loan debt you're responsible for, you may want to refinance if a significantly lower interest rate is available. You can also combine multiple loans with varying interest rates into one loan with refinancing.
Start by taking a look at what interest rates the lenders are currently advertising. If the rates are significantly better than the rates you're paying on your loan, it's worth investigating. Keep in mind that not everyone will qualify for those lower rates — you'll need a healthy credit score and solid finances.
This is a basic outline of the steps it takes to refinance your loan:
- Shop around for the best interest rate and terms. Make sure you can prequalify to know the rate you'll be offered without a hard pull on your credit.
- If your credit score is limited or low, ask a family member or trusted friend to cosign your student loan. If they have good credit, you'll get a better interest rate.
- Compare your offers and apply for the best one using the lender's online application. In most cases, the process takes just a few minutes from start to approval.
- Once you're approved, ask for your 10-day payoff amount from your current lender, so you can pay off the loan without incurring any new interest charges.
- Keep making payments to the original lender until the refinancing process is complete.
[Read: The Best Student Loan Refinance Companies in 2020]
Student loan FAQs
Start paying your loan as early as possible. It may feel like less pressure to get a deferral after you graduate to search for a post-graduate job. But even a small contribution while you're in school (like $25) can save you money on interest down the line.
You can also receive a small discount on your interest rate (0.25% or more) by electing autopay for your monthly payments, which also helps you avoid late fees. Lastly, if you have more than one student loan, you may save money by consolidating your student loans into one lower-interest loan (refinancing).
In many cases, the interest you paid on your student loan during the tax year is deductible. There may be a few exceptions depending on your filing status and loan obligation, but most of the time, it's considered an income adjustment. The deduction is limited to whichever is less — $2,500 or the actual amount of internet you paid.
Federal student loans are provided by the government. A federal loan will have a fixed interest rate and an income-based repayment plan. They don't require a credit check nor a cosigner (while private loans often do.) Private loans are offered by independent financial institutions (banks, credit unions, etc.) They can have a variety of repayment plans, terms lengths, and the interest rates can be varied or fixed.
Too long, didn't read?
It can be scary to sign your name to such a large sum. Arm yourself with all the information you need to make the best choice — all the costs associated with attending your school, the impact of interest rates on the total amount you'll owe and repayment plans that fit your lifestyle. Don't be afraid to shop around for the best rates for your situation.
We welcome your feedback on this article and would love to hear about your experience with the student loans we recommend. Contact us at firstname.lastname@example.com with comments or questions.
Last editorial update – January 21, 2021 – updated lender rates and information.
The coronavirus pandemic has already changed the financial industry, and student loans are no exception. For example, Navient, another major student loan servicer, provided a statement on its website for those affected: "If you've been impacted by the coronavirus and are having difficulty making payments, we encourage you to call us at 888-272-5543 to explore your options to reduce or postpone your payments."
Many online lenders are also offering help to people affected by COVID-19. SoFi published an alert to its website where you can find a list of general service-specific contacts, as well as resources provided in response to the novel coronavirus. For support related to student loan payments, SoFi advises that "to inquire about forbearance and hardship relief due to COVID-19, please contact MOHELA at 877-292-7470 or send a secure message through sofi.mohela.com and they can address your concerns."


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John Galliano was enjoying a few drinks last night at a cafe in Paris until he got in a verbal altercation with a couple and got arrested. Police sources say Galliano, the head designer of luxury house Christian Dior, was insulting the couple with anti-Semitic remarks. Or calling them "Asian"? LOL WTF? Yikes! Do we have another Mel Gibson on the loose? Dior, part of the LVMH empire, has released a statement stating that Galliano has been suspended from all his duties because the house "affirms with the utmost conviction its policy of zero tolerance towards any anti-semitic or racist words or behaviour." Awaiting the results of the inquiry, Galliano is suspended indefinitely for his alleged racial slurs. This is pretty big news in the fashion world, considering Galliano's celebrity status as a designer. If you're not familiar, here are 5 things you need to know about John Galliano:
He was born in Gibraltar (a British territory off the north of Spain) and grew up in London. He's known for his haute couture designs and wild personal style. He appreciates hot supermodels and celebrities just like we do. He considers Kate Moss and Charlize Theron to be his muses. The late Alexander McQueen was his successor at Givenchy (where Kanye's homie, Riccardo Tisci is currently head designer). He says lots of crazy shit like, "Style is wearing an evening dress to McDonalds, wearing heels to play football. It is personality, confidence and seduction." Uhhh, sure dude.
[via Fashionista]


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Many people are saying Kanye West may have canceled his own career after going a week-long pro-Trump rampage. However, Wednesday was the breaking point, he claimed Trump was his "brother" and posted a selfie of wearing a Make America Great Again hat. See the madness below:
Twitter exploded and the rapper was reportedly unfollowed by Justin Bieber, The Weeknd, Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Harry Styles, Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj and Kendrick Lamar. However, one person had Kanye's back — Chance The Rapper.
Chance appeared to miss the point. Being a Black Republican and being a Black Trump supporter are completely different. Tons of Black Republicans have slammed Trump. That said, many were afraid we lost Chance to the sunken place:
Well, Chance has now spoken out in lengthy statement. He apologized for "attempting" to support Kanye, writing, "Kanye West is not just a mentor or big homie to me. He's my family. No matter how much I may disagree with him, it's hard for me to watch people talk about someone I love — even if they were justified in doing so." He continued, "I didn't speak up because I agree with what Kanye had to say or cause I f— with trump, I did it because I wanted to help my friend and cause I felt like I was being used to attack him. Unfortunately, my attempt to support Kanye is being used to discredit my brothers and sisters in the movement and I can't sit by and let that happen either." His post also included, "My fault yo." See below:
Well, that was a close one. Although some folks will still be mad, Chance The Rapper just escaped the sunken place. Be careful, bruh. The sunken place has swallowed Steve Harvey, Ray Lewis, Stacey Dash, Chrisette Michele, Tina Campbell and countless others. Once you are in, there is no way out!
Forgive But Don't Forget: Remembering Those Times When Barbara Bush Waded Into The Waters Of Race
Billy Graham's Complicated Relationship With Black America, Explained
Chance The Rapper Just Narrowly Escaped The Sunken Place was originally published on newsone.com


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The National Budget for fiscal year 2017/2018 will be debated come Thursday and Friday at the National Assembly in Belmopan. The initial presentation made by the Prime Minister had cited several sources for additional income which has raised concerns in various sectors. Senator Osmany Salas is the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Belize Tourism Industry Association who spoke to us on the position paper of the BTIA that was released earlier this week.
Senator Salas will be making a presentation at the next sitting of the Senate on March 27, 2017.


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Rodney and Ronney Freeman played basketball together, graduated high school together and entered the police academy together. Now, after graduating in August, the twins are both patrolling the streets of San Francisco.
The San Francisco Police Department on Thursday released a video that chronicles the Freeman twins. The brothers grew up in the city and joined the force with hopes of patrolling the Visitacion Valley neighborhood, where they grew up under the care of their grandmother.
In the video, Ronney acknowledges the negative perception some have of officers, and advised incoming police academy students to challenge those perceptions.
"Join the department for the right reasons. Know why you're doing it," Ronney said. "You want to do it because you want to help the community. You want to do it because you want to defy the stereotypes."
Though the video is part of the department's regular recruitment efforts, its release comes at a time when the SFPD has been facing immense backlash.
In late November, San Francisco Police Officer Christopher Kohrs – whose good looks and svelte physique earned him the nickname "Hot Cop of Castro" on social media – was arrested and charged with two counts of felony hit-and-run. The pedestrians Kohrs allegedly hit and left at the scene were seriously injured, requiring extensive medical care.
The city's police department has also been the focus on nationwide scrutiny after the police-involved shooting death of Mario Woods.
Police say Woods was suspected of a stabbing and refused commands to drop a knife. Critics and lawyers representing Woods' mother, however, say police used unnecessary force when they fired a barrage of bullets at the 26-year-old.
A previously unreleased video of the shooting shows Woods with his hands at his sides, apparently contradicting the police department's account of what happened.
It was also revealed that two of the officers involved in the shooting have previously been accused of using excessive force.
In the aftermath of Woods' death, San Francisco police have been taking measures to improve gun policies, according to Chief Greg Suhr. There has been talk using weapons that would inflict lethal injuries.
"The community deserves the best from us, so,you know, we've got to provide the best to them, said Ronney in the video. "Be a helpful hand. That's the main thing."


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|Popular in
|High demand for flights, 4% potential price rise
|Cheapest in
|Best time to find cheap flights, 4% potential price drop
|Average price
|Average for return flights in September 2022
|Return from
|From Singapore Changi to Ottawa
Ottawa is Canada's fourth-largest city, selected as the capital by Queen Victoria in 1857. The city is located on the Ontario side of the Ottawa river, opposite the French-speaking city of Hull and less than an hour's drive from the border with the US. Ottawa itself is bilingual, with most residents speaking both English and French.
The city is home to the country's parliament – housed in three spectacular gothic buildings perched atop Parliament Hill on the Westside of the Rideau Canal – and something of a cultural centre.
Museums, galleries and theatres abound, including the National Gallery, the Museum of Civilisation and the National Libraries.
Lying on the confluence of three rivers (the Ottawa, Gatineau, and Rideau), it is also one of the greenest cities in Canada, with many public parks and spaces as well as easily accessible surrounding countryside.
Its compact size makes it all the more appealing for visitors as most attractions are within easy walking distance. The airport, Ottawa International, at which flights to Ottawa land, is well connected by public transport as well as by taxi and limousine.
Search and compare: cheap flights to Ottawa
Winter can get very cold indeed in Ottawa: the second lowest temperature in a capital city was recorded in Ottawa in 1943 of -31 degrees Celsius and in terms of January temperatures it is the third coldest capital in the world (after Ulan Baatar and Astana). Temperatures in the summer, however, are relatively warm. The average July temperature is around 26C.
As with most cities, Ottawa is a year-round destination with something to do even in the depths of winter.
Peak season:
The most popular season to visit the city is during its summer, roughly from June to late August. This is when the majority of visitors step off flights to Ottawa.
Shoulder season:
Rates of Ottawa flights can fall in the spring and autumn as temperatures and weather are unpredictable. Heavy snow has been known to fall as late as May. However, there is still much to do in the city: most attractions are open year round and there are annual events and festivals taking place. Check the events and festivals page of the Ottawa city website for detailed information.
Off season:
Winter time (November through February) is the least popular time to visit Ottawa.
Public transport in Ottawa is provided by OC Transpo (buses and the light rail O-Train). Driving is pretty easy and parking spots are freely available. Ottawa is a great city for walking and cycling too. Most of the sights downtown area are within walking distance of each other. Taxis, tour buses and riverboats are all other ways of seeing the city.
If you book a flight to Ottawa, you will be flying into Ottawa, which is the city's only airport. Ottawa (YOW) is located 10.6 km from the centre of Ottawa.


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Tagged: BADACA
Never Mind the Ballots: Eight Upcoming Radical Protests & Events
While most eyes seemed to be focused solely on the election and our political 'leaders', there are a lot of other events coming up to keep the anarchists and radicals of Bristol (and beyond) busy. Some of these are being organised by us, some by our friends and comrades. Others are just ones we're going to and you should do everything you can to support or attend as well. Whatever your view on the election, make sure it doesn't get in the way of the real politics!
Upcoming Events:
Dorset Radical Bookfair
Saturday 3rd June
Portfield Community Hall
Dorset's first ever Radical Bookfair is happening this Saturday! There will be stalls, talks covering a range of topics (including two from us on 'Capitalism, Anarchism & Mental Health' and 'Revolutionary Women'), and films on anarchism, rebellion, and the revolution. And it's free entry!
To find out more, check out their Facebook event.
Hartcliffe Protest! Re-open the Rent Offices!
Saturday 3rd June
Symes House
Come on down to Hartcliff on Saturday to stand with residents as they protest the cuts their community has had to face and the closure of council facilities at Symes House. These are cuts we're facing all over the city, so even if you don't live in Hartcliff, go on down and show your support. Facebook event.
Politicians vs Bristol – Fight The Cuts
Think it should be none of the above? Then join us in the streets this Saturday & Tuesday!
The fight against cuts has been a long and tough one, but we can't afford to let up. Not when peoples' livelihoods, well-being, and very lives depend on it. It won't end with the upcoming protests (see below for details). In fact, it will need to step up a gear in the months afterwards, if it is to have any impact.
The government in Westminster continues to demand cuts to essential services, still telling the same old lie that it is for 'the sake of the economy' or to lower the national debt. The reality of the past seven years says otherwise. Councillors across the country have spoken about being 'anti-austerity', but so far have only put their careers and the easy life first, passing on the cuts, regardless of which party they belong to.
In reality, these cuts are an attack on working class and vulnerable people across the country. It's about giving less of the wealth that we produced to us – whether we receive it in our wage packets, our benefits, or our access to state services – and giving more of it to the few at the top. Privatisation goes hand-in-hand with this, creating yet more profit for the millionaires, and it's all the easier to implement when services are already stretched to breaking point.
So, what can we do about it?
First off, join the protests ! Continue reading
Why the government keep making cuts, and why we need to stop them
Austerity (or cuts as most of us think of it) is a hard pill to swallow. Services are closed or run into the ground with 'efficiency savings', jobs are lost, and benefits cut. Still, it's a necessary cure right? Us ordinary folk can't continue to have luxuries like care for the elderly. The state needs every penny to help pay off the national debt. You know, that one that got built up by bailing out the bankers. After all, those bankers need to maintain the bare necessities of life, like their multi-million pound salaries and private yachts.
Surely after six years it must be working? Well… Continue reading
No excuses for being bored this weekend!
Four actions in under 24 hours this Friday & Saturday!
Things kick off (as in start that is, not, you know, kick off) with the Anti-Police harassment demonstration 6.30pm, Assembling at Newton Park, Old Market going to Trinity Police Station (MAP) Bring noise, banners, lanterns etc.
A little later in the evening some of us will be taking the short walk to the central fire station to support the FBU members who are staging a four hour strike as part of their fight to prevent the raising of their retirement age.
On Saturday at 12.30pm, the 'Save Our City' coalition of anticuts groupings in Bristol are organising a demo against George Ferguson and his plan to cut 1000 jobs, they're making it a personal and will be protesting outside the Tobacco Factory bar/cafe that he owns and uses as his central bristol base. Facebook Event.
Finally, just down the road from the anti cuts demonstration over in East Street, our friends at Sol Fed have organised a picket of Santander beginning at 2.30pm. This is part of an international campaign of solidarity with a CNT member in Spain who was fired from his job at Santander for union organising, facebook event!
Hope to see you in the streets, let us know if you attend all four and we might give you a cookie.
Love & Rage,
Bristol Anarchist Federation
Global Reports of May Day Actions 2013
MAY DAY – May 1st – has been celebrated as International Worker's Day since 1890. The date was chosen by members of the Second International to commemorate the Haymarket Affair which occurred in Chicago, United States in 1886: On May 1st 1886 American unions held a nationwide general strike. An estimated 400,000 workers went on strike in Chicago. In the days following the strike, seven anarchists were framed and sentenced to death after a bomb was thrown at the police during a rally called on May 4th in response to an act of police violence following the strike outside the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company on May 3rd that left six workers dead.
For a full history of the Haymarket Affair, the Haymarket Martyrs and the origins of May Day please watch this talk by Bristol Radical History Group from 2012 at Hydra Books.
Across the world yesterday workers took to the streets to celebrate International Worker's Day (1st May)! We have complied below a incomplete list of actions from around the globe. With this list we hope to showcase the sheer size and diversity of the modern worker's movements:
To the streets for May Day 2013
Update: Facebook Event
This year Bristol Trades Council is pulling out all the stops and attempting to throw their biggest May Day March in years. Whilst they may not have said it themselves, we'd like to think the effort of everyone who got involved with the 1st of May Group last year and the success of our demos, actions, and saturday march is what inspired them! Continue reading
Anarchists Blocked from Speaking at Mayday Rally
K: "Guess what? The south west TUC are actually organising a big event for Mayday this year."
B: "…Really."
K: "I bet you can't guess exactly what that are going to do?"
B: "Oh a challenge huh? Well, they will not do it on May day, it will be on the following Saturday. There will be an A to B march from City Hall at …11.00 am?! It will finish in Castle Park for a Rally at the band stand."
K: "Ha, yes, exactly that! Also I've managed to find out where the next organising meeting for the march is. They've invited a few groups along, maybe our invite got lost in the post, lucky we found out about it huh?"
So we decided to pop along to the meeting to see if we could have some say on the plans for May Day. Last year we were involved in a group organising (and encouraging others to organise) a week of action based around Mayday including a march and rally hosted by BADACA. We thought we would see how plans were panning out for this years May Day celebrations, expecting a large public meeting (last year had 30+ people at the 'first of may group' meetings) we instead found ourselves in some sort of steering committee, Continue reading
Workfare Leaflets and Target List
Here are our leaflets for todays anti workfare action. Thanks to Sol Fed, Boycott Workfare, and our own Bristol AFed reasearchers for the information and content!
Leaflet: Anti Workfare Leaflet
List of workfare providers in Bristol: Bristol Workfare Target List
1831 Issue 04 October 2011
Latest issue of Bristol AFed's irregular news sheet 1831
-Bristol Council's Plans to close care homes and day-centres for elderly.
-Bristol Uni's links to the arms trade
-Local nuclear plans
-and more!


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Consider Phillips' second book, The Egyptologist.
Phillips' next effort was a Victorian drama, Angelica.
This engrossing story has marvelous characters that are akin to mirror balls spinning on strings. With the reader supplying the light and interpreting the multiple reflections they create. The physician father can be fairly viewed as a demon, a hard working and loving cold fish, a victim of spousal abuse, or any number of other things. The beautiful mother, a former shop girl, can be fairly viewed as an insane wife-from-Hell, a broken victim of spousal abuse, a classic plotting gold digger, or any number of other things. Depending completely upon the reader you interview, this book is either a Victorian family drama, a ghost story, a murder mystery, or a classic tragedy. Or all of the above. You tell me. I just loved the book.
Which brings me to Phillips' latest offering, The Song Is You. Once again, we find a main character so interesting and well drawn that you find yourself peering into the end of a literary kaleidoscope, fascinated with the changing images you find inside. Having just turned fifty, I can appreciate the notion of the mid-life crisis even if I haven't experienced one. Yet. The fellow who is the subject of The Song Is You is in a Category Five Mid-Life Crisis. He has had a tremendous personal tragedy. Lost a marriage. Suffers the presence of a loving but very odd older brother. About the only things going right for this man are his career and his Ipod. On which he stores a fantastic and vast music collection, including a soon-to-be-discovered young Irish woman that he comes across singing in a neighborhood New York bar. After this discovery, the gent embarks upon what could be fairly described as an aching, quasi-mutual love affair with an eclectic, talented, and beautiful woman half his age. Or, he engages on what could be fairly described as an obsessional stalking foray taking him across the globe and back again as he pursues what he, in a deluded fantasy, perceives as the love of his life. In other words, The Song Is You is another masterful piece of storycraft from the pen of Arthur Phillips. What is the "true" interpretation of the story? You twist the cylinder of this fine story and tell me what images you perceive. Needess to say, I highly recommend all of Arthur Phillips' books for your enjoyment this summer.


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On December 25 at 6PM, a Bergen Street resident reported that he parked his vehicle at 3PM on the 24th and discovered it had been stolen. There was no evidence left at the scene and no video of the incident. On December 27th, the stolen vehicle was located in Newark.