Student loans can feel overwhelming — especially as policies continue to change. Understand the latest federal student loan updates for 2026, choose a repayment strategy that fits your career goals, and avoid common mistakes that can derail repayment or forgiveness plans. You’ll leave with practical tips to build smart financial habits and feel more confident about your next steps.
At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:
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Understand the latest federal student loan updates and how recent changes may impact repayment.
- Learn how to evaluate your repayment options based on income, career trajectory, and long-term financial goals.
- Recognize common student loan mistakes and how to stay on track with your repayment and forgiveness goals.
Michael Jerkins, MD, M. Ed
Michael is the President and Co-founder of Panacea Financial and is also a practicing physician in Little Rock, Arkansas. After earning his BBA in Economics, he deferred his medical school acceptance to teach middle school science in the Phoenix, Arizona area while also earning his Masters in Education from Arizona State University. He then completed medical school at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center before finishing his residency at University of Cincinnati Medical Center and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. He hosts The Podcast For Doctors (by Doctors) and speaks nationally educating doctors on the intersection of practice and finance.