I was in the same situation when I started college in '04. Back then when it was the WRX/Celica/Prelude/S2000/RSX..etc. I wanted to get my hands on one of these cars. But I knew I couldn't be able to afford it. With tuition, rent, and expenses. However, I was fortunate to have a hand-me-down: 1987 Toyota Supra NA (2nd Generation owner). Then I graduated, struggled to land a job (9months), got the job and getting paid well!!!! Now, FR-S is in my sights. Going to turn Supra into a project car.
Can I afford the FR-S now, HELL YES!!! Could I have afforded a car like the FR-S back in college, HELL NO!!!!
Hope this helps you out!