I went to a no-name community college. I have zero debt, I make a livable wage. I work in IT. It can be done, you don't need to go the traditional route anymore unless you can get into a prestigious school.

Prestigious schools are worth the connections/friends you will make. Always take it if you are offered to go to Harvard, Princeton, MIT etc;

If you get into your regular state college etc then just do 2 years community first and save money. You won't make friends with wealthy/connected people in the same way you would at a prestigious university.