Alright before I post anything I know people are touchy on this subject. I am myself. So if you read anything you don't like, don't take it to heart, it's just how I talk.
You guys put selfish in, which is a very nice word really, but I find this pathetic. The kid is old enough to realize the mistakes of gambling. He knew he would have to pay the money back if gambling didn't work. So when he gets himself into a whole lot of trouble he doesn't want to be a "man" about it and pay back what he owes. He takes the easy way out. He was 21, he definitely should've known better.
Don't get me wrong I think it's sad the kid did what he did. He could've been the nicest guy in the world, who knows. Sadly, I think it's better he did what he did now instead of down the road when he would have a family that does rely on him (wife and kids).