HRSA LRP vs Health Professional Loan Repayment Program

[IThinkICan100]

*I didn't know where to place this thread, but, because I am a nursing student and this question is about student loans, I thought this would be the best forum.*

So... I'm starting my BSN program in 10 days! (Super excited) I'm going to a private university and I know that I will graduate with a large amount of debt. I want to be on top of repaying the loans ASAP after graduation. I know that most facilities nowadays aren't offering a sign on bonus or loan repayment program, so I've been looking else where.

Out of all my research, the HRSA LRP and the Health Professional Loan Repayment Program are two of the best options. I know that they are two different directions and have their own requirements.

HRSA LRP is for nurses working in under-served areas and is considered a civilian job. Their website says 60% loan repayment for the first two years and an additional 25% after the third. I've heard some mixed views on this program. Most people complain about how hard it is to find a job in an area that the HRSA considers "under-served" and other issues with getting accepted into the program.

The Health Professional Loan Repayment Program is with the armed forces, which I am fine with joining. It offers a maximum of $120,000 in loan repayment, but that isn't guaranteed and varies based on your contract. You must sign on for a set number of years and have go through their training and etc. Also, the whole program varies based on which branch you go into. I've heard that it is becoming harder to get a job as an army RN, especially with being a new graduate.

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I really want to knock out most of my debt ASAP after graduation because I want to attend graduate school. I'm a little confused about these two options. I know that they aren't guaranteed, but I highly considering applying. What do you guys think? Which is best?