Private College Student Loan

Questions on Loan Consolidation? I am new to all of this because fortunately between my parents and scholarships my undergrad degree was paid in full. Yesterday Igraduated with my Masters and I have a TON of student loans to repay. The program itself was very expensive. My job does give me some reimbursement for that ($4,000 every fiscal year, as long as I still work there and until the tuition cost is paid off) but the interest that collects in the mean time is all on me and it is a lot. That said, I need to call and get my loans consolidated but I do not know the first thing about doing this. Do I call the company I have my loans through? (mostly FAFSA sponsored) Do I call a bank? What kind of information do I need to have ready to speak to them? Any tips on getting lower percentage rates? If I have a credit card with less APR than my loans would be it be wise to pay some with that because its less money or a bad idea because student loans are "acceptable debt" versus a credit card? Any advice that anyone has on how to go about this, good or bad company's, things to look out for, etc. are much appreciated!