The problem with that statement is that established doctors make a lot of money. Interns and residents who are just starting out don't. Half a million in debt doesn't sound so bad if you can count on a $200,000 salary. Half a million in debt is terrifying when you only make ~$40,000 a year for the next four to eight years depending on your chosen specialty.

I have an issue with this kind of thing, the kind of elitism in some fields. Say someone getting education to become a doctor, after their years of study it seems that they come out on an initial low wage and an you should be glad were going you a chance kind of attitude.

Correct me if I'm wrong, it's just the perception I have seemed to get about some fields from things I have read.