I'm older than most on this board. Education was prioritized by my parents, back in the day. After my father retired from the Air Force, they chose to move to a college town to make getting a college education within reach. The tuition at North Dakota State, when I went, was $145/ quarter. Books cost maybe $100/quarter, if you purchased used books. I was able to pay for my education on a part time job at a grocery store. During the school year, I worked 20 to 25 hours week, and in the summer I could usually work close to forty hours. I also bought a car, after my freshman year.
There was enough money to spare to hunt waterfowl, buy my first rifle, and drink more beer than I likely should have. When I graduated, there was no debt, to anyone. I bought a new car, after getting my first job after college.
My parents gave me room and board, but no financial help with college expenses.
I do not think that is close to an option in today's world.
We were able to help our daughter get a college education, without debt. That took me working a good bit of overtime, at a good paying refinery job.