re: What minimum salary would be required to be part of the middle class?

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I have often felt that two classes should be part of a "core" in any degree program - and they are financial accounting and intro to finance. Those classes are more important to personal development than biology or psychology.

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Agree about the accounting. Take a look at your school's MBA curriculum--you may be able to talk your way into a management communications, crisis comm, or similar course.

Become proficient with Excel so it doesn't take you three hours to do simple things. (You can practice by setting up your household accounts in a spreadsheet.)

Also, consider more carefully how you spend your free time. Yes, music lessons bring in cash...but those kids aren't potential professional contacts who might hire you. Consider doing some volunteer work in a professional capacity. Nonprofits are often looking for grantwriters, or perhaps someone to re-write their dated website copy. Your school might be looking for volunteers to assist with alumni relations events....

And start working the career services office at your school NOW. Make an appointment to see the relevant person and show up decently dressed. Pitch your skills and ask him/her to help you broaden your job search. That's what the career services people are paid to do....