So... I got my official estimate for college. It's not even so bad. After pre-granted scholarships and grants (and what I have in savings) it's just a bit over $5,500! For an entire year of college this isn't shabby at all. And I have until the end of the school year (2010) to pay all of the tuition, anyway.
Still, I'm not liking this. This is without food and other living expenses. I have been putting some serious thought into possible $5 chibi sketch commissions here on DA to give me a bit of help. They'd look similar to this: [link] Just not digitally lined/colored (though I would be willing to do either for a price) ((I have been experimenting with the style used in Wind Waker: [link] Sorry for the rough scan. Had to use a digital camera while the new scanner is being installed. And the sketches you receive would have actual lines, not just pencil. <3 Still be the same price either way.)
I would be willing to do an infinite amount of them and officially have my own PayPal now so that's not a problem. I'd also take money via snail mail, if need be. :3

So far it's just a huge 'Maybe.' Would anyone even be willing to part with $5 to get a sketch? Maybe lined for $5? (Someone suggested full color for $5. That's off the table. I'd be making less than minimum wage...)
Please tell me what you think. If I get enough positive reinforcement I may just try. Even if I only earn $20, that's $20 more than I had!