You can always go back to a financial aid officer and say, this just isn't going to cut it. We can't come here with this aid award what else can you do. And sometimes that works especially if there is another offer on the table from another school. Another option and that an increasing number of families are looking to is what's called two plus two. And then switching to a name brand four year school and essentially getting that name diploma for half the price.
Most students do work.
About 90 percent during the Summer and between 50 and 60 percent during the school year. There is nothing wrong with say 10 hours a week. Sometimes you can even get a job in your field of study. It becomes an enhancing experience. Some students will have work study as part of their financial aid package.