In desperate need of ideas

I'm not a big fan of people who post sob stories on forums, especially here where we're all struggling. But I need some ideas because I know the people here are clever and always willing to help.

I'm starting my sophomore year of college in the fall, and the tuition has increased. I have a full-ride but it doesn't cover the increase, and since my family lives paycheck to paycheck there is absolutely no source for that money. We can't, and don't want to get any more loans because we're in enough debt already. In addition I will be needing at least $300 for books.

On top of all of this mess the owner of the house we rent has put our home on short-sale meaning they're trying to sell it as soon as possible and then we have 30 days to pack up and go. We don't have the money for any sort of deposit or downpayment at another place. So needless to say, we need help big time!

The issue is, I can't work, my parents are already overworked, and I don't know what to do. If anyone has some ideas please post them here or PM me.

Thanks,
DB

I'm terribly sorry to hear about your situation. Listen, ask your department at school if they give out scholarships. The Econ department at my school gives out scholarships to econ majors even if they are undocumented.

Now as far as books go, try to download your books from the internet, or buy a little scanner and scan your books. I usually buy my books, scan them, and then take them back. Or, I get a friend to lend me their books over night and then I scan them. That will save you a few hundred bucks.

I know these are small things, but such things have helped me save more than $5,000 over the last few years.

you can also use the books that the instructors have reserved in the library. That usually what I do.

You need to learn how to hustle, ask around for jobs, and try to be slick....craigslist is your friend...You should also open a bank account and try to see what you can do on ebay..... I make more money that some of my friends with papers..

Awesome The photocopying this is definitely something I hadn't thought about, I'm feeling more relieved. I just wanted to say how great it is to have such a supporting community, it's always very helpful. If you've got any more ideas keep 'em comin!

First off try to see if you can get a part-time job, maybe something around 15-20 hours a week that can give you a little spending money and what not. Secondly, see if you can find your books online, *ahem* not exactly legal or what not, but it's pretty much just like photocopying it w/o the hassle.

where do u guys find your books online(download) ?

I used to use textbooktorrents.com but they got shut down. Try thepiratebay.org... they mostly have math and science books though.

Story of my life! Haha. I'll be back and tell you what I do after my test tomorrow.

Why can't you guys work? I'm sure there are a lot of family owned businesses that would give you work. You need to get creative and you'll be ok. If I was desperate I would do everything possible to get a job...