Being debt free is already an advantage.
And making connections is kinda something each individual must work on.
Here is the thing. Who is to say that this situation didn't give them connections. I would be highly shocked if they can't use this situation to get their foot in the door at some companies.
Lets not forget that Robert Smith even mentioned at the graduation that his people would be staying in touch with the students. One to see how they are doing and two to get their student loan amounts owed.
Just off of that you got connections IMO.