In this series, NerdWallet interviews people who have triumphed over debt using a combination of commitment, budgeting and smart financial choices. Responses have been edited for length and clarity. Dear Debt Who: Melanie Lockert How much: Paid off $57,426 in 2 years, 11 months What do you do when you have a master’s degree in... More From NerdWallet How an Exporter Used Forbidden Fruit to Cheat U.S.