As a former camp counselor, I'm mildly surprised that it's the highest paying job you've been able to find.

I completely understand about the 3rd party scholarships thing. I was getting $2000 a year, half of which was National Merit, but when I changed schools it all disappeared. :-( Does Cornell offer anything in the way of work/study or employment at the school that could be coupled with the financial aid? I know some schools are pretty good at helping work that out. Also, do you have any relatives that might be willing to help pay for your education?

If all else fails, have you considered the millitary as a means to pay for college? (I'm not necessarily reccomending it, just throwing it out as an option.) Or, would you be able to postpone college for a year or two to work and save for it?

My mom and uncle are both Cornell grads, so I've heard some pretty good things about it. I certainly hope you're able to work it out.