Hi artsygirl. Thank you for your service in the military. I appreciate your sacrifice. You might want to reach out to a veterans group for support. Many people in the military, even non combat, can find PTSD a problem in adjusting to civilian life.

NYC is a tough place. Even rooms can be 1500-2000 per month. It is overwhelmed with immigrants.

Parents are usually happy to have you live at home (ie free) while you go to school. Maybe that is tolerable. Texas does not have a good safety net. Here is a school that can give you credits for work experience in the military.
Excelsior College | Excelsior College

Not sure if that would be appropriate if you are going into graphic design.

Glad you are joining us here. There are lots of compassionate people here that can make the load lighter by sharing and caring. Feel free to participate actively at Psych Central.
http://forums.psychcentral.com

Please feel free to private message me or any of the Community Liaisons by left clicking on the name in blue to the left of their post) for questions or just to share.