I have two student loans, one through Direct Loans and one through EdAmerica/EdFinancial. I am thinking about consolidating the student loans in the Direct Loan program. The reason I am thinking about doing this is because you always hear that consolidating is easier and more efficient than having multiple student loan payments. Another reason I want to do this is because under the Direct Loan program, because I work in a public university I am eligible for their IBR and loan forgiveness programs. I have also heard some negatives about consolidation as well so I am not sure if I should pursue this or not. I am hoping, as there usually are, some people on here who have gone both directions and that can tell be the benefits and drawbacks of consolidating and not consolidating. Thanks for any input or advice.
