<p>"I'm going to school on the opposite coast from where I live, and I have to pay for my own plane tickets. I also had to buy winter gear and a printer (which is probably only a one time cost, really) last Fall. "</p>
<p>Jeez, modestmouse, you didn't tell us that! With the unpaid internship (supported by your folks) that does put you in a position where your 'allowance' is a little on the frugal side. However, the advantage of getting your $ in one lump sum is that you can purchase your travel tickets well ahead of time and save money. </p>
<p>If you don't want ask your folks for an increase, psych studies or Kaplan are both options. And when your folks find out - its done. AND you can tell your folks that grad schools like to see students taking initiative on these things. </p>
<p>I hope that you will have an wonderful time on your internship. You should be able to make pretty decent money as a waitress - and you will have lots of stories from both experiences next fall.</p>