“My parents didn’t specify EXACTLY how much they are willing to pay all-in, but I know that they highly encourage going to a university which tuition costs less than 30k a year”
You need to speak with your parents again about the costs of college. Make sure that all of you are clear about what they can pay. When they said 30k in tuition, they may have really meant 30k total. Work out a full budget including meals, housing, transportation, books, etc.