For me, yes, I think I did have to give up something (unless I would have stayed living in my dad's house)... and here's my reasoning...
When I did move out, (summer before college) I actually DID start to go to college. I lasted three weeks and I couldnt do it. I was working, going to class from work. Other days I was working, going to class, and going back to work. I had two jobs because with only one job I wouldnt have been able to pay for day care, diapers, and food (though most of my food did come for free since I worked in two restaurants). After only three weeks of doing both, I couldnt take it anymore. I could barely stand, let alone get through an entire class where I needed to think about anything. My homework wasnt getting done.
So in the end, I dropped out of college. I planned then to go back once Karma was in regular school (since school costs in one year what day care does in a week). Instead, I found out I was pregnant before she started kindergarden.
So... Anyway...
I do think that there are people who can make it without giving up either. It might be tough, it might not, but I wasnt one of those people who could have done both.
(interesting thread! Be back later
)