I just graduated with $16k in student loans, and I'm wondering if it's worth it to consolidate, or if I should leave my loans as they are.

My rate is a bit over 6%, and my payments (which start in December) will be about $200 a month.

I have a friend (who is married to a guy in a wheelchair) that has always said that she would never consolidate her student loans, because, if you do, your loans aren't forgiven in case of complete disability, as her husband's were.

On the other hand, a lower interest rate would be nice.

What factors should I consider when deciding whether to consolidate?

If consolidating would be a good choice, are there any particular lenders that you would recommend?

I think you can go for student loan consolidation. Go to organisations who are good. They can reduce the payment amount by 50% and also lowers the rate by 2.1% so, i think it can be done. More over you can refinance your student loan debts. There are other options also. So when you can reduce the rate and there by lower the amount then why not consult them.
I cannot recommend any lender as it is beyond the terms and conditions here.
To know more you can visit
http://www.easystudentloanconsolidation.blogspot.com