Pessimism runs high in the class of 2025 after entry-level hiring prospects have tightened for two years straight and a student debt crackdown begins.

The message hits on a variety of issues as it looks to expand Pell Grants, change student loan repayment plans and put limits on how much some individuals can borrow.

About 19% of last year's graduates from nine Houston-area community colleges had student debt, with annual costs at some schools nearing $4,000, state data shows.

The nation's historically Black colleges and universities are wondering how to survive as the Trump administration downsizes the scope and purpose of the U.S. Department of Education—while cutting away at federal funding for higher education.