TheLionKingLives -- That's a really great idea. If you get 30,000 and only need 20,000, make uses of that extra 10,000. I like the idea of putting it in a CD or a savings account.

You also might want to try looking for loans that are specific to students. I believe that student loans dont need to be as big, and usually have deferred payment until some point after graduation. You dont need to use a bank that is in your home town (neither of my banks are). Google "student loans" and plenty of information comes up. Try this website for some basic information about loans and that should help you figure out where to go to get the type of loan you want:
http://www.finaid.org/loans/

Best of luck!
Ro