<p>If you are dead-set on going to MSU and your parents are willing to pay for the first year (even without any scholarships/aid) there are things you can do to help pay for some of the burden. Of course, get a job during school. I’ve worked 1-3 part-time jobs throughout my time at MSU, it might suck but it is definitely doable. There are short-term loans with little interest through MSU fin aid, and the MSU student government offers $250 interest free loans for 6 weeks to pay smaller expenses. Also, schools and departments have their own scholarships for academic/research excellence (once you are attending) so you still have an opportunity to look for fellowships/scholarships that could help you pay for your 2nd, 3rd, 4th etc. years at MSU. There are also quite a few research competitions/essay contests that you can apply to (that don’t care about your H.S. gpa or test scores). And then there are loans…if you take out loans you will be just like at least half of the kids at your school (but it would lessen the burden off your parents if they can’t afford it). Welcome to adulthood - paying for stuff yourself stinks!</p>