It's definitely manageable..everything is, if you're willing to invest the time and energy to doing well. I took my prerequisites at a city university (much cheaper, and can even get a scholarship) and then applied to a nursing program (lived at home, and worked during school to pay the tuition). Just know that we have huge obstacles that we have to overcome, but look for opportunities and don't give up - when one door closes, another opens up. Set goals to keep your sanity, and try not to get discouraged. It gets frustrating and nerve-wracking at times, but when you attain your goals, it's all worth it in the end. I can't do anything with my degrees yet, but I'm still glad to have them! and in a way, it was good, cuz my situation forced me to graduate without loans. I still live at home with my mom, but I'm debt free!