Sounds like you're stretched pretty thin, with some big decisions to make on top of that! It is understandably a scary time to be contemplating life after graduation.

You are going to be fine. It sounds like you have a few weeks to shop around for concrete options re your living situation. Check bulletin boards, put the word out among friends and colleagues that you are looking for a place to live. You never know who might know about a situation that will fit your needs.

Since the employment situation could be uncertain, you want to avoid increasing the size of your student loan. You also want to avoid getting locked into a lease that causes you stress you don't need. Once you have finished school, how much time do you want to spend working at the running store to pay your rent, vs. time you need to practice and keep your skills sharp to find a job in your chosen field? I think one of the most challenging things at your stage is making for your big-picture goals when practical, daily concerns seem to have a greater feeling of urgency. I don't remember what instrument you play, but are there community orchestras/semi-pro ensembles that you could join?

It also occurs to me that while working at the running shoe store seems to be alright for paying the bills, it is *just* a job, in that it doesn't do anything to advance your music career. I know the economy is terrible, but is there a possibility of finding work closer to school? The commute you describe is quite long. That's valuable time you could be spending practicing your instrument.

These transitions are never easy . . . but one day you'll look around you and take a lot of pride in getting out there on your own, paying your own way, and hopefully, doing work you love. It's a pretty darn good feeling, and that day will come. Be strong!