<p>Thanks for the responses!</p>
<p>I understand that life isn’t fair and that my parents do not have to provide me with a college education. I’m just freaking out because my dad had repeatedly told me that he’d pay for college no matter where I went (luckily, I ended up at the cheapest school on my list. I’d be in hysterics if I had ended up somewhere expensive, such as NYU) and told me to relax and NOT to work last summer (I did anyway. I wanted to be responsible and independent). He also didn’t want me working during the summers in high school (although I did work some). So this all kind of came as a surprise. I made some money performing throughout high school (some of which he took out of my account as custodian and used for his own purposes), and I also spent the last few Christmases and birthdays asking for money, which I then put into savings (I hate to spend). So at least I have something to start with.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t be angry I had known in advanced that I would need to pretty much pay my way. This was more of a recent development. I know, things happen. I’m just freaking out a bit because I got pushed out of the nest with no warning or advice. I’m very lucky I have my mom who wants to help however she can, although she has many mental problems, which makes it harder for her to help me out in general. </p>
<p>I’m going to try to get some Stafford Loans, and I was able to find out that I can now put only my mom on the FAFSA (my parents aren’t actually divorced so I didn’t think I could), which will help. I’m working now and looking for a second job to help me earn more. I’m still worried about getting a job during school. The way my schedule is, I basically have class all day until either 5PM or 3 PM, then I have rehearsals every night from 5 or 6 until about 11PM, and all day on weekends through October (being in shows is part of my major). I’m hoping I can find a job that has a VERY flexible schedule so I can work during September and October. That’s why I said it would be hard to hold a job with my schedule. I still plan on trying, I’m just a bit freaked out by my schedule. I don’t want anyone to think I’m being whiney.</p>
<p>I do have one question for you guys, since you all seem so knowledgeable. At my school, you basically have to live off-campus after freshman year because there isn’t enough housing. Would the fact that my housing is off campus affect my loans? I’ve tried looking it up, but it’s all so confusing. I’m feeling a bit lost especially since my scholarship covers pretty much all the money I’ll be paying my college next year. I read on Temple’s website that Financial Aid can be used to cover off-campus housing, but I’m still trying to figure that out. Do any of you parents have any experience with this type of situation?</p>
<p>Thanks!!</p>