I'm in advertising too and I'd say it doesn't have to be one or the other. If you're itching to go freelance, start putting feelers out there for freelance jobs you're interested in. Yes, you have to start somewhere, but the work is out there, you just have to find it! You'll also want to keep in mind that when you go freelance you end up having to set aside about 30% of your paycheck for taxes. I'd suggest doing some research to learn all the pros and cons you can about freelancing before quitting your job. I recently took a free class online about freelancing through Creatively. General Assembly is also a good resource for free workshops/events about taking control of your career. I'm sure you have friends who freelance or have freelanced in the past too, maybe start picking their brains. Best of luck!

I wish I had the same dilemma at your age, I would have jumped at it and paid off my student loans quicker and maybe I would have bought my house sooner. With student debt so much higher these days, I would strongly recommend you take the higher paying job, pay off the student loans as quick as you can, and pick up some freelance work on the side to help fill out the portfolio. And, save as much money as you possibly can for the lean times because, as a creative, there will be lean times as well. I also agree with anonymous when she said not to assume that you won't enjoy a position that seems to be less creative. When I graduated from college I had a Fine Arts degree and no experience. My first job was in a quick print shop that a friend recommended me for. It wasn't what I aspired to and it did not pay a lot, but while I was there I learned a lot. I bought a computer and taught myself how to use it and how to do graphic design. I've done everything from production work and ad layout to software UI design and corporate marketing. Each new job was a step up in pay and a new experience. You never know where your career will eventually take you but if you limit yourself because you don't think that you'll have a chance to do "portfolio worthy" projects, you may miss out on some great learning opportunities.

You still have time for your career long-term. So I recommend taking the high paying job, especially if you calculate the debt pay off to be substantial in 1-2 years. I also recommend creating some sort of reminder as to why you are in that high paying job. It's easy to lose track of decisions and why we do what we do :-) Good luck!

What feels good to you? Go with that one. From someone who walked away from a six figure job because I hated what I was doing, money isn't always the answer. It helps, yes, but if you're in a position where you can pay your loans, support yourself and create work for your portfolio to accomplish your long term goal, stay where you are. Having student loan debt isn't the end of the world. It's a decision to pay something off over time. Some of the mainstream money teachings are painful. If you're looking for a unique perspective, I recommend Amanda Frances. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC76lfveV7QStZchp0iA6HLg

Don't be so quick to assume you will not enjoy these other types of positions or that they would not add value to your career path. Even if you don't add to your portfolio. I would always choose the more senior positions that pay more. Especially 30% more. I will follow the responses offered by creative in case your advertising space is radically different.

Pay those loans off in whole before leaving the high-paying job.

The student loan debt will smother you. Take a high-paying job and do your portfolio work on your own time. Check out Dave Ramsey's financial advice. It can save you from yourself.