Calling some Finance Majors…….

I have 6 student (federal) for about K total balance. 1 of my has an interest rate of 2.8% FIXED. Everything else is a variable rate, presently at ~6.8%. If I consolidate some , I’ll end up with about a 5.875% fixed rate. If I don’t include the 2.8% loan in the consolidation, I’ll end up with 2 , the 1 at 2.8% fixed rate and the consolidated loan which may become a fixed rate at ~6.8%.

The question – I want to preserve the 2.8% part of my with a separate payment BUT I don’t like the 6.8% consolidated fixed loan rate. Are there other alternatives to the rates offered by companies that offer less than a 6.8% rate?

What have you smart gals/guys done to beat these over inflated rates???
Thanks for some suggestions.