i was in boston for undergrad.
try looking on craigslist for no broker fees (if you do go with a broker, don't go with comm ave associates, just my 2 cents).
there are more college age students and young professionals in areas like allston, brighton, cambridge, etc. a studio will run you $1k/month, and gets about $150/month cheaper as you add roommates (e.g. 2 bed place might be $850/person per month). if you have more questions, you can PM me.
good luck.