In a world where healthcare and unemployment seem to top the list of Americans' concerns, the rising cost of attending college isn't far behind. But don't let a shaky economy stand in the way of your dreams for your future. Instead, get smart when it comes to planning and don't leave any stone unturned when it comes to looking for help. Here's how:

1. Take a realistic look at what your costs will be. Start by going to the internet and comparing tuition rates for all of the colleges that you are interested in. Then, find one of the many financial aid calculators online to figure out how much your family might qualify for.

2. Keep your search broad. Every college and university has its own amount of scholarship endowments and financial aid available. If you limit yourself to just one or two favorites, you could miss out on another school that can help you out more. See what's out there.

3. Don't let the term "financial aid" confuse you. Fill out the forms even if you think your parents make too much money. As your guidance counselor for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and see how you fare. This is the best place to start because it is fairly standard no matter which schools you apply to.

4. Borrow with caution. You've surely heard about the shortage of credit available in today's troubled market. There are student loans with good rates, as well as private loans for your parents if they quality. Be sure to study all of the terms before accepting, however, because the loans will likely follow you around for years to come.

If savings, financial aid, scholarships and student loans still don't add up to enough to get you through a four-year program, keep brainstorming. For example, if you start at a local junior college or community college you could save money by living at home the first year and transferring later. Or, take the year after high school to work. Where there's a will, there's a way, right?

Mary Greene counsels students on choosing online colleges and online universities meeting their individual needs.