Despite living in an expensive area, NYU sophomore Eric Hu is paying his $48,000 tuition as he goes. “After working several jobs his freshman year, he says, he was able to pay off the entire year’s tuition by the beginning of his sophomore year — and he’s on track to do the same for the 2015-2016 school year.” Here’s how he does it: Taking advantage of scholarships, finding ways to earn money, piecing together different jobs to earn enough, planning out his days to maximize earning, living below his means, and following a clear financial plan. Student loan is a heavy load for most newly graduate. By paying the tuition bill as he goes, Eric is well on the way to the road of financial independence.