Going to college is tough enough for students when the economy is good. But recently, they're learning it may get even more difficult. For many high school seniors, deciding what to study after high school isn't child's play. But for Marissa, it was.

"I love teaching kids, they're so fun to be around every day, and they just make you smile," says Marissa Bloomquist, a Senior High School student. Making the decision to be an elementary school teacher came during her senior year, after taking classes that allowed interaction with kids. And while she's ahead of some by already choosing a career and a college, she faces a challenge shared by many students across the country.

"My family doesn't have a lot of extra money for college. We haven't really been saving that much. I have been saving myself, but it isn't enough for college," she says.

The cost of a college education is going up. Tuition at public universities averages just over $6,500 dollars a year, while the price tag at private institutions is more than $25,000 dollars. Career counselors say as families dip into savings accounts for other expenses, more and more students have to rely on borrowing.

"Parents have not put aside the savings for these kids to go to school, they want to go, they want to begin, but the money is such a huge factor," says Steve Wilson, Counselor at The Career Center in Billings.

Montana University Officials say roughly 85% of their students receive some sort of financial aid. They say that number is likely to go up.

"If there's one thing that blows these kids out of the water, its financial needs," says Wilson. But, there may be some good news. In the last year, Unsubsidized Loan limits have increased, along with Pell Grants, which don't have to be paid back. Under the Obama Administration, they expect more grant money to be available.

Still, counselors warn students not to get in over their heads. "Once these kids get out of college, only 16% of are actually working in the field they studied for, so where is this money to pay back loans going to come from?"

For Marissa, getting a four-year education is her way to pursue what she loves to do, even if that means taking out loans to get there. "Everyone says it's worth it, so i hope it is in the end," says Marissa. An end she hopes will come to her in a classroom, teaching and helping her own students pave their way to a brighter tomorrow.

Of the three high schools in Billings, there are 1,167 seniors in total. West and Skyview High Schools will be holding their graduation on May 31st, and Senior High will have theirs on June 1st.